Bulimia Nervosa: A Comprehensive Analysis of Treatment, Policy, and Social Work Ethics.

Abstract

Bulimia nervosa is an often debilitating eating disorder with a biopsychosocial set of risk factors. Those presenting are at an increased mortality rate and often have physical health complications as well as harmful cognitions related to self-esteem and overall self-concept. This article examines treatment, policy, and social work ethics as they relate to bulimia nervosa. A comprehensive cognitive-behavioral approach including psychoeducation, self-monitoring, exposure therapy, interpersonal therapy, body image therapy, energy balance training, and relapse prevention is recommended as evidence-based practice for treating bulimia nervosa. Authors identify health care policy and analyze it as a common barrier to treatment access. They also review ethical principles of competency and social justice as they relate to social work practitioners working with those diagnosed with bulimia nervosa.

• Authors: Dana Lynn Bernacchi
• Journal: Social work (Soc Work) Vol. 62 Issue 2 Pg. 174-180 (Apr 01 2017) ISSN: 1545-6846 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 28164234 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: © 2017 National Association of Social Workers.

Topics

• Bulimia Nervosa (therapy)
• Health Policy
• Humans
• Social Work (ethics)