Autonomy Disturbance as a Psychological Characteristic in Anorexia

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In the search for improved treatment for eating disorders many constructs have been researched in the pursuit of improved clinical care and the prevention of relapse. Issues of autonomy and locus of control are frequently cited as issues to be addressed in treatment, however consistent support for this focus is lacking. Researchers appear to share multiple definitions of autonomy within the clinical literature, yet solid, empirical evidence linking autonomy or related constructs such as locus of control or ineffectiveness to the etiology of anorexia nervosa is absent. The results from this research are significant and clarifies differences in perceived autonomy as it relates to adolescents’ psychosocial stages of development and locus of control, and offers recommendations for the treatment planing process with this difficult population. Treatment can be improved through enhanced focus on issues of locus of control and personal autonomy, ultimately reducing the chronic and refractory nature of the illness. Treatment providers in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings will benefit from a research-based approach to treatment.