LACK OF INTEREST IN EATING OR FOOD, A SUBTYPE OF AVOIDANT/RESTRICTIVE FOOD INTAKE DISORDER (ARFID): DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, AND FOLLOW-UP FROM INFANCY TO LATE CHILDHOOD

Abstract

Recognizing that feeding disorders often start in infancy but can continue into childhood, adolescence, or even adulthood, DSM-5 has introduced the new diagnostic category of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), which covers all age groups. Lack of interest in eating or food is one of the 3 major subtypes of ARFID. Two studies addressed the challenges of treating children with ARFID at different ages, and 2 different treatment methods are presented: one for toddlers and one for young children ranging in age from 5 to 10 years. Two longitudinal studies point to the ongoing eating difficulties and additional psychopathology in older children with ARFID.