Anorexia nervosa: psychological considerations for nutrition counseling

This article presents the underlying psychological beliefs and self-perceptions held by individuals with anorexia nervosa. The intent of this article is to help dietitians and other nutrition counselors become more aware of the psychological characteristics of individuals with anorexia nervosa and become familiar with various counseling skills that can assist counselors when they are working toward reaching the goal of re-establishing normal eating patterns and attitudes about food. Counseling approaches that may be used by the nutrition counselor in an effort to deal effectively with the various psychological characteristics displayed by anorexics are provided. Nutrition counselors must be well informed of the psychodynamic aspects that prevail in the disorder, such as low self-esteem, frustration over gaining weight, and a distorted body image. In addition, nutrition counselors must be aware of the particular communication skills (e.g., attentive listening, empathic responses, and verbal encouragement) and basic therapeutic methods (e.g., encouraging self decision making and providing support and acceptance of thoughts, feelings, and actions) that can be used for effecting positive growth and changes in dietary behavior of individuals with anorexia.