Group analytic therapy for eating disorders: preliminary results in a single-group study

There is a lack of empirical data on the effectiveness and process of group-analytic therapy in eating disorders. This single-group study aimed to explore the effectiveness of such treatment for anorexic and bulimic individuals.

Eight patients (three anorexic and five bulimic women) entered group-analytic treatment, meeting weekly for 2 years. Eating behaviours, overall psychological distress and group process variables were regularly assessed using quantitative and qualitative measures, with comparisons made at the beginning and end of the therapy.

Treatment was discontinued in two cases. When outcome was classified on the basis of reliable change and clinical significance for the remaining patients at the end of treatment, four were recovered in terms of overall psychological distress, while one was unchanged and one had deteriorated. In terms of eating disorder symptoms, three patients were recovered, two were unchanged and one had deteriorated. Patients experienced an overall positive group climate and a positive group alliance. Perception of being understood by the therapist appeared to play an important role in the therapeutic process.

These preliminary results suggest that group-analytic therapy may be effective in helping patients with eating disorders. However, more work is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.