Compassion focused therapy for eating disorders: A qualitative review and recommendations for further applications.

Background People suffering from an eating disorder ( ED), or more generally with eating, body image, and weight concerns, have been found to experience high levels of self-criticism, self-directed hostility, and shame. Furthermore, these individuals tend to have difficulties generating and activating affiliative and self-soothing emotions. Methods Compassion focused therapy ( CFT) specifically addresses these issues, and CFT for eating disorders ( CFT-E) was designed to incorporate the development and practice of compassion for self and others into standard ED treatment programs to assist with these issues. Results This article describes (1) the theoretical rationale for cultivating compassion for self and others as part of ED treatment, (2) the adaptation and incorporation of CFT-E within ED treatment programs, and (3) a qualitative review of the current evidence base for CFT-E. Conclusions Finally, the article will explore recent and potential future developments in CFT-E, and recommendations for the use of CFT-E in clinical practice, including its application for those who present with other eating and weight concerns (such as being overweight or obese), and various modes of inpatient and community-based delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]