Attachment-Based Family Therapy for Adolescents With Binge Eating

Attachment-Based Family Therapy for Adolescents With Transdiagnostic Binge Eating

The purpose of this study is to examine whether Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT), a well-validated treatment for adolescents with depression and suicidality, is feasible and acceptable for adolescents with binge eating and their families.

This study involves a phone screen and baseline assessment to determine eligibility. Participants who are eligible for the study will receive 16 weeks of ABFT treatment. The treatment primarily focuses on improving communication and relationships within the family, and will also address disordered eating behaviors (e.g., binge eating, laxative use, self-induced vomiting). All participants enrolled in the study will receive the same treatment. Participants will also complete research assessments throughout treatment, at the end of treatment, and 3-months after the end of treatment. Research assessments include a battery of questionnaires and interviews.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Speak, write, and understand English
• Age 12-22 years old
• Have a diagnosis of DSM-5 AN, BN, BED, or OSFED
• Medically stable for outpatient treatment
• Must have a parent, guardian, or primary caregiver who is willing to participate in the study and treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acute suicide risk
• No parent or guardian agreement to participate
• Are currently receiving psychological treatment for an eating disorder
• Are currently receiving weight loss treatment
• Co-morbid clinically significant psychological disorder that would require attention beyond the study treatment (e.g., psychotic disorder, substance dependence)
• Diagnosis of intellectual disability