Objective
To systematically review and evaluate the efficacy of eating disorder focused family therapy (FT-ED) in comparison to all other forms of psychotherapy for children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa. A secondary aim is to assess the relative efficacy of different variations of FT-ED (e.g., shorter vs. longer dose, parent-focused).
Methods
A search with relevant terms was systematically conducted on four databases. Twenty-three publications across 18 randomized controlled trials met inclusion criteria. Outcomes of interest included variables related to weight, eating psychopathology, and remission status. Study quality was assessed, and data were extracted by two independent researchers.
Results
Adolescents receiving FT-ED gained significantly more weight by the end of treatment in comparison to those receiving individual psychotherapy. FT-ED that was delivered just to parents or to parents and child separately offered preferable weight outcomes and rates of recovery at the end of treatment in comparison to conjoint FT-ED. No other outcomes tested in the meta-analysis were statistically significant at the end of treatment or follow-up.
Discussion
Currently available data suggest the use of FT-ED in its conjoint or separated/parent focused format is the best outpatient treatment option for adolescents with anorexia nervosa when immediate weight gain is paramount. The variability of outcome measurement, including the tools used and timepoints chosen, limit comparison among no more than a handful of studies. The field would benefit from the standardization of measurement and reporting guidelines for future clinical trials.
Trial Registration
PROSPERO number: CRD42023396263.
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