Review of attachment interventions in eating disorders: Implications for psychotherapy

Abstract

Background Attachment theory has been used in personalized treatments since decades. It is a major framework for understanding images of the self, affect regulation, reflective functions and interpersonal relationships. The improvement of attachment functioning is associated with positive treatment outcomes in eating disorders. However, attachment interventions have not been summarized in their psychotherapy. Aims The aim was to review the relevance of attachment features in the psychotherapy of eating disorders. Methods A literature review was carried out for empirical review and case studies, using the terms “eating disorder” and “attachment” from 1987 until 2017. From the 320 matches, 50 relevant studies were integrated into this review. Results The relationship between dysfunctional attachment and eating disorders could be conceptualized in seven ways, including transgenerational transmissions and mediator personality traits. Attachment can mediate between early experiences and adult symptoms, between...