Eating Disorders Psychology

The social environment around us and in the media has been a huge contributor to many young females developing eating disorders. There is a lot of pressure on females to be skinny and have the perfect body. Carrie is definitely susceptible to these pressures, especially since she grew up in the figure skating world; she was constantly told that she needed to stay skinny and watch her weight. When she was placed on the strict diet for skating at age 14, she was complimented on how skinny she was. These compliments confirmed what her coach and mother had been telling her, and encouraged her to continue to lose weight. Each time someone tells Carrie that she is skinny they are reinforcing her behaviors and encouraging her. She does not understand
The first goal is to correct the abnormal eating patterns. The second goal is to address the broader psychological and situational factors. This second goal may also require meeting with the family and friends of the individual seeking treatment. Initially, Carrie would most likely require hospitalization to regain the weight to a non-life-threatening number. While hospitalized any other immediate health concerns would also need to be addressed such as: electrolyte imbalances, organ functioning, and possibly hydration. As Carrie starts regaining weight, many rewards and praises should be given to her. I would help her to set new, positive goals. She would also be involved in choosing the rewards so it is something that she wants to work
I think a lot of the factors in her particular disorder are from her childhood. I think it would be beneficial to explore the dynamics of her relationship with her father; both with her and him. I would like to have both of their perspectives, and have them discuss their problems in a controlled environment. Similarly I would like to meet with her mother, and maybe try to treat her own set of struggles so she is not transferring them onto Carrie. I think family counseling, as a whole unit, would also be very beneficial in this situation. It is also going to be important to have their support on board for when Carrie relapses and to help hold her accountable. If possible, and if Carrie allows, I would like to try to involve at least one friend in her treatment. The social support of a close friend might make a big difference, especially if they are from school and can watch over her while she is there. This of course would require Carrie’s full consent and