Body image disturbances are highly predictive
of the course of eating disorders, and addressing
these problems effectively, has been an ongoing challenge
to clinicians. This study examines whether a specific
group therapy program geared to body image reduces
different components of the body image disturbance
more effectively than an unspecific nutritional
management program. Patients and Methods: All 57
carefully diagnosed female inpatients who took part in
the study were diagnosed with anorexia nervosa according
to DSM-IV criteria. Results: Patients of either group
(similar in age, BMI, duration of illness, comorbidity)
showed significant and clinically relevant improvements
over time in all scales. After an intervention of 4.5 weeks
the Body Image Group was superior with regard to several
tests assessing body image. However, this effect did
not persist over time. Two body image variables (global
estimation of attractiveness and figure size rating) constituted
the most important predictors for course of treatment
(change in body mass index) in the full sample.
Conclusion: Effect sizes in both groups were medium to
high, a finding that warrants paying more attention to
this rather promising new treatment module for anorexia
nervosa. The results of body image outcome studies will
be summarized.