Assessment and Diagnosis of Eating Disorders

The assessment and diagnosis of eating disorders (EDs) are critical for identifying EDs and associated symptoms, formulating an accurate understanding of the client’s disorder, and planning effective treatment. This chapter deals with the accurate assessment and diagnosis of EDs by discussing the diagnostic criteria for EDs, strategies for integrating ED assessment into a clinical interview, and special considerations for the assessment and diagnosis of EDs. It provides recommendations and guidelines for the assessment and diagnosis of anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and BED using the DSM-5 criteria. Clinical interviews require counselors to balance the dual goals of obtaining a comprehensive assessment with developing and maintaining rapport with the client. Counselors must balance the goal of adequately screening for EDs with that of being careful to not overpathologize clients whose weight and shape concerns fall within current cultural norms.