NCJ Number
153421
Date Published
Unknown
Length
29 pages
Annotation
Numerous studies document a correlation between eating disorders and a history of physical and sexual abuse in selected clinical samples and a correlation between eating disorders and dissociative and multiple personality disorders.
Abstract
Trauma-based theory reconceptualizes compulsivity symptoms as distorted survival strategies to overwhelming stressors. The result of the trauma-generated dissociative process is that the individual will not be integrated. Eating disorder symptoms function as distorted survival strategies within the context of the dissociative defense. These symptoms may result from overwhelming, chronic, inescapable stress and acute trauma in childhood. In the case of sexual abuse, a distorted survival strategy is to make the body unattractive in order to prevent further abuse. Trauma resolution can be facilitated by accessing the dissociated parts of self. After the trauma bond is broken, the client is more able to benefit from cognitive-behavioral, systemic, gestalt, and 12-step treatment approaches. The client can then learn to overcome long-term patterns of self- revictimization, learned helplessness, and low self-esteem and to use his or her own efforts and accomplishments to solve problems. In addition, the client can establish healthy relationships and sexual interaction. 36 references and 2 tables