Assessing guilt in adolescents with anorexia nervosa

Abstract

Objective: This study explores the role of guilt in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Numerous clinical observations have suggested guilt in adolescents or parents contributes to the development of anorexia nervosa, though systematic assessment of this phenomenon has not been undertaken. Methods: The Interpersonal Guilt Questionnaire was used to assess types and levels of guilt in adolescents with anorexia nervosa and their parents. Results: We found significantly elevated levels of self-hate guilt in adolescents with anorexia nervosa compared to adolescent norms. However, parents had lower levels of guilt compared to adult norms. Conclusion: Self-hate guilt is elevated in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Treatment strategies should take this phenomenon into consideration when developing clinical approaches.