Treatment refusal in anorexia nervosa

Abstract

Individuals with anorexia nervosa often refuse treatment for the disorder. A subset of individuals vehemently reject medical and/or psychological therapy. Of these some may be temporarily denied the right to refuse treatment. The author reviews psychological and philosophical aspects of treatment refusal by individuals with anorexia nervosa. Psychodynamic and cognitive processes involved in refusal are discussed. The author identifies principles which assist in guiding the negotiation of treatment refusal in anorexia nervosa.