Enhancing readiness for eating disorder treatment: A relational/motivational group model for change

Relational theory asserts that women with eating disorders require mutually empathic and empowering relationships to work through the intense denial, ambivalence, and fear that keep them stuck in early stages of change. This paper presents an integrated relational/ motivational group model (contemplation group) for women with eating disorders. The paper begins with a discussion of limitations related to motivational group work that was not informed by a psychology of women. Next, the paper addresses how Relational theory (RT) complements and enriches a group approach based on stages of change theory (SOCT) and motivational interviewing (MI). A group redesign process involving close collaboration with recovered peers is discussed. The new integrated group model is then presented. The paper ends with a review of implications for practice of and research into effective motivational approaches for women with eating disorders. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR