Death related themes in anorexia nervosa: a practical exploration

On the basis of an extensive literature review, Jackson and Davidson (1986) suggested that the theme of death may constitute an integral part of the psychodynamic aetiology of anorexia nervosa. This paper describes an attempt to explore this contention using a structured questionnaire in a group of adolescent patients to examine experiences, concepts of and attitudes concerning death. Comparison of the responses of this group with those of age matched school student controls and recovered patients revealed qualitative and quantitative differences which lent some support to the hypothesis. It is concluded that death related themes are of significance in the understanding and management of this illness.