Using Short Stories to Address Eating Disturbances in Groups

Abstract

Short stories can be an effective group-level intervention for addressing disordered eating attitudes and behaviors. This technique may be used in eating-disorderthemed groups or in any group in which members present with eating problems. The authors provide specific guidelines for the use of short stories in group work. An example is provided to demonstrate how to choose an effective story, how and when to present the story to the group, and how to process the selected story in a way that elicits therapeutic benefits for group members. A list of selected stories and sample process questions are included.