Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders in Adolescence Using the Example of Anorexia Nervosa

Theoretical Background: Eating disorders in adolescence such as anorexia nervosa (AN) are associated with challenging and life-threatening behaviors. What is the current state of research on the effectiveness of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in treating eating disorders in adolescence, and how does DBT address the challenges of treating eating disorders in this age group? Methods: In the review article, systematic reviews/meta analyses published between 2021 and 2024 are summarized based on a literature search in the medical database PubMed. In the second part, the potential therapeutic factors of DBT, from the clinical perspective of the authors, are presented in relation to the treatment of AN. Results: There are few randomized controlled trials available. From the literature review, it becomes clear that many studies primarily focus on the effectiveness of skill training as one component of DBT. However, the combination of therapeutic stance and technique, proven effective in the treatment of patients with borderline personality disorder, represents a promising therapeutic approach for adolescent patients with AN. Discussion and Conclusion: To date, no evidence has been established for the effectiveness of DBT in adolescent patients with AN. Since DBT is already being used in some clinics in Germany for patients with AN, a multicenter randomized controlled trial considering the overall DBT concept would be urgently needed. (c) 2025 S. Karger AG, Basel