Background: This workshop is designed as an introductory course in eating disorders. Symptom manifestation and presentation in conjunction with diagnostic criteria will be presented. Factors that contribute to the development of an eating disorder such as neurobiological findings, genetic influences, and bio-psychosocial implications will be covered.
- Introductions – Overview of Eating Disorders
- Anorexia Nervosa
- Diagnostic Criteria
- Genetic contributions
- Neurobiological contributions
- Traits
- Family contributions
- Cultural contributions
- Updates for DSM-V
- Benchmarks
- Bulimia Nervosa
- Diagnostic Criteria
- Genetic contributions
- Neurobiological contributions
- Traits
- Family contributions
- Cultural contributions
- Updates for DSM-V
- Eating Disorders NOS
- Differential diagnosis
The understanding and practice related to Eating Disorders has become increasingly more complicated. Recent research has indicated that the development and maintenance of an eating disorder is attributable to a variety of influences. We now know that there is a strong genetic component that dictates different temperaments and brain functions that renders an individual more vulnerable to the development of an eating disorder. We also know that there are many neurobiological variables that greatly influence behaviors and traits that also influence the development and maintenance of different eating disorders. Although the issue of family involvement remains controversial, there is no doubt that families, in conjunction with other cultural influences, play a role of varying degrees. Co-Morbid conditions such as Trauma, Mood Disorders, Substance Dependence and Abuse, and Personality traits and disorders are present in many Eating Disorder Women and serve to complicate symptom profiles, treatment, and treatment outcomes. As clinicians we are continually faced with the challenge of working with a more acute patient population. A basic understanding of the diagnostics and function of an eating disorder is vital for the best possible treatment outcome.
Dr. Reto is a clinical psychologist and registered nurse specializing in eating and weight disorders, chemical dependence, and is the current Director of the Women’s Center at Pine Grove. She began her training in eating disorders in 1983 while attending the University of Washington and went on to receive her Ph.D. from the California School of Professional Psychology – San Diego in 1997. She currently sits on the Senior Advisory Board of the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals.
