The Integration of Family-Based Treatment and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescent Bulimia Nervosa: Philosophical and Practical Considerations

Eat Disord. 2015;23(4):325-35. doi: 10.1080/10640266.2015.1042319. Epub 2015 May 26.

Abstract

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and family-based treatment (FBT) are two evidence-based interventions that have been applied in the treatment of bulimia nervosa (BN) in adolescents. While DBT focuses on providing skills for coping with emotion dysregulation that often co-occurs with BN, FBT targets the normalization of eating patterns. The purpose of the current article is to introduce an integration of both treatments to provide a more comprehensive approach that targets the full scope of the disorder. We provide a review of the conceptual similarities and differences between FBT-BN and DBT along with strategies to guide a blended treatment approach. Given the strengths and limitations of either independent treatment, DBT and FBT-BN complement one another and together can address the range of symptoms and behaviors typically seen in adolescent BN.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior
  • Behavior Therapy*
  • Bulimia Nervosa / psychology
  • Bulimia Nervosa / therapy*
  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Family Therapy*
  • Humans