How would you handle SP's mother in the above situation? ...

[Tazate]

How would you handle SP's mother in the above situation?

Question 2

When SP's friends and family told her how thin she looked, it encouraged her. This is typical for many anorexics. What approach should be used to discourage rather than encourage a person with anorexia?

[katara]

Answer to Question 1

It would be necessary to get SP's mother aside somehow and explain to her the importance of rapport that has to take place between clinician and client. The interview has to take place with either the mother not there or with the mother totally quiet. Preferably, with the mother not there if reliable information is to be obtained.

Answer to Question 2

Every time someone tells an anorexic they look thin, the anorexic usually does not express an emotion but on the inside is saying yes.. Instead, it may be better to tell them they look unhealthy and point out any obvious signs of unusual behavior, i.e., you seem to get tired a lot easier than you used to; is everything all right?