Eating Disorders of the Adolescent: Current Issues in Etiology, Assessment, and Treatment

Eating disorders have increased dramatically over the past 2 decades, resulting in prevalence rates exceeding most other high-incidence handicapping conditions treated in educational systems. Eating disorders have serious psychological and social consequences manifested by underachievement, interpersonal difficulties, and emotional instability. These disorders affect adolescents primarily, but are prevalent in age ranges from 7 to over 25. School psychologists have unique opportunities to identify and assist youngsters in the early stages of an eating disorder. A review of the literature covering symptomatology and etiology is presented, followed by a delineation of assessment, consultation, and early intervention activities which can be used effectively by the school psychologist. Also, psychological and pharmacological treatment procedures are described.