Pathological Conflict Avoidance in Anorexia Nervosa: Family Perspectives

Authors: Latzer Y.¹; Gaber L.B.²

Source: Contemporary Family Therapy, Volume 20, Number 4, December 1998 , pp. 539-551(13)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Conflict avoidance is a common pattern in families of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN), but little systematic controlled research has been conducted to elucidate the formal mechanics of such interaction. Forty family triads with daughters suffering from AN were compared to 40 matched control (CON) triads, on five measures of conflictual family situations. Results revealed that the AN group had significantly more difficulty in choosing the topic of discussion, adhering to the topic, developing and exploring the chosen topic, and reaching a solution—all within a family setting. Findings empirically support previous clinical and research evidence on the pathological avoidance of conflict in families with a member who has AN. Therapeutic implications are discussed.

Keywords: anorexia nervosa; avoiding conflict; family interaction

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Director, Eating Disorders Clinic, Division of Psychiatry, Rambam Medical Center, PO Box 9602, Haifa 31906, Israel, and Senior Teaching Fellow, Department of Social Work, University of Haifa; Latzer@netvision.net.il 2: Chief of Clinical Psychology, Division of Psychiatry, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel, and Senior Teaching Fellow, Department of Social Work, University of Haifa

Publication date: 1998-12-01