Exploratory study of the role of family in the treatment of eating disorders among Puerto Ricans.

Abstract

In Latino culture, the family is a major source of social support. We explored the needs and the role of the Puerto Rican eating disorders patient's family in the treatment process by conducting a focus group with five close relatives of youth with eating disorders. Qualitative analyses indicated the need to integrate the family into treatment and to provide management guidelines to assist with the resolution of situations that emerge frequently during recovery. These results underscored the importance of developing and incorporating psychosocial interventions that include family support and guidance for relatives of Puerto Rican youth patients with eating disorders.