Especially for Parents

I just received my copy of The Parent's Guide to Eating Disorders by Marcia Herrin and Nancy Matsumoto. Although I haven't had time to digest it completely, my initial quick read suggests a wealth of important information for families and the therapists who are trying to help them. It also appears to be appropriate for parents of both young children and teenagers. There are three chapters devoted entirely to discussion of the Maudsley method of treatment for eating disorders, a family based treatment which has had amazing success; and this author's adaptation of that method, Parent Assisted Meals and Snacks (PAMS). There is a very helpful, non judgmental chapter on assessing the parents' relationship to food, their own body image, and how that can impact their children. I intend to use this book as a guide as I continue treatment with my youngest patient, age 7. I will also recommend it to all parents who are interested in preventing eating disorders and developing healthy body image in their children. Until next time, Gail