Mechanisms of action in the process of change: helping eating disorder clients make meaningful shifts in their lives.

Josie Geller

Journal: Clinical child psychology and psychiatry 2006;11(2):225-37

PMID: 17086686

Abstract

This article describes a model for change that draws upon motivational and cognitive-behavioural theories. It is suggested that maladaptive beliefs hold individuals captive in destructive self-perpetuating cycles dominated by the illness. In the context of a trusting therapeutic relationship, inquiry and experimentation can lead to the reformulation of maladaptive beliefs, and to the development, reprioritization and/or strengthening of higher values. A clear cohesive system of higher values allows individuals to make autonomous life decisions, which reduces the need for maladaptive coping strategies.

Address: Eating Disorders Program, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada. [email protected]

DOI: 10.1177/1359104506061413

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MeSH Terms: Adaptation, Psychological, Adult, Anorexia Nervosa, Attitude to Health, Culture, Female, Helping Behavior, Humans, Life Change Events, Motivation, Psychological Theory