The Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Improving Body Image and Reducing Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa in Adolescents

Anorexia nervosa is one of the most common and serious eating disorders during adolescence, characterized by an excessive fear of weight gain, distorted body perception, and restrictive eating behaviors. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), as an evidence-based and well-established approach, focuses on correcting dysfunctional thoughts, restructuring negative body-related beliefs, and promoting healthy behavioral patterns. The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of CBT in improving body image and reducing symptoms of anorexia nervosa among adolescents. The statistical population included adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa who referred to psychotherapy centers in Tehran in ۲۰۲۴. Thirty participants were purposefully selected and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received ten ۹۰-minute CBT sessions based on Fairburn’s model, while the control group received no intervention. The instruments used included the Body Image Questionnaire (Cash et al., ۱۹۸۷) and the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). The results indicated that post-intervention mean scores of body image in the experimental group significantly increased (improved body image), while symptoms of anorexia nervosa significantly decreased (p < ۰.۰۱). The findings also revealed the persistence of treatment effects at one-month follow-up. Overall, CBT proved effective in improving cognitive and emotional components of body image and eating-related behaviors in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Therefore, it can be concluded that CBT, as a comprehensive approach, plays a significant role in reducing key symptoms of anorexia nervosa and enhancing positive body attitudes. It is recommended that this approach be implemented in group and family-based formats in counseling centers, schools, and psychological clinics for at-risk adolescents.

Keywords:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy , body image , anorexia nervosa , adolescents , eating disorders