Use of Technology in the Assessment and Treatment of Eating Disorders in Youth

Abstract

For countless young people, technology plays an essential role in their lives. However, its many advantages have not yet been widely applied to the treatment of youth with eating disorders. This article looks at how smartphone applications, Web conferencing, and other developments could widen the range of care available in a field where suitable support can be hard to find. Various barriers to treatment exist, such as cost, access, and the stigma attached to eating disorders, but existing and new technologies could overcome those obstacles, if clinicians are willing and able to meet the requirements associated with digitally enhanced treatment.

Keywords: Blended therapy; Eating disorders; Mobile health; Online treatment; Self-help; Smartphone applications; Youth.