Chapter 17 - The use of dialectical behavior therapy in childhood and adolescent eating disorders

Abstract

Eating disorders in youth are a life-threatening psychiatric concern. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), an evidence-based treatment for individuals with severe emotion dysregulation, has shown promise as an effective treatment for individuals with eating disorders. The theoretical model underlying DBT conceptualizes episodes of disordered eating as an attempt to regulate or change one’s emotions. DBT has begun to be used for onset of disordered eating in youth. While research to date is limited, DBT for childhood eating disorders suggests promise as an effective treatment. The present chapter both details the underlying theories and models for use of DBT for eating disorders, as well as the evidence supporting the use of radically open DBT (RO DBT) for use with disordered eating presentations in youth. Research-to-date examining DBT in youth with disordered eating is reviewed, and needed next steps identified to developmentally adapt and establish this intervention for childhood and adolescent eating disorders.