Transdiagnostic Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Eating Disorders (Fairburn, Cooper, Shafran, 2003)

Noting common processes underpinning the maintenance of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and other related conditions, Fairburn, Cooper & Shafran (2003) proposed a transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural model of eating disorders. They identify a dysfunctional system for evaluating self-worth as central to the model: individuals with eating disorders evaluate themselves according to a relatively narrow range of domains including their eating habits, shape and weight, and their ability to control them. In addition to this core dysfunction they identify four additional mechanisms which, in some cases, act to maintain an individual’s difficulties. These additional maintenance processes include:

• Clinical perfectionism
• Core low self-esteem (persistent and pervasive negative self-beliefs that are viewed as part of the individual’s self-identity)
• Mood intolerance (difficulty coping with strong mood states)
• Interpersonal difficulties

One interesting characteristic of the model is that “The patient’s specific eating disorder diagnosis is not of relevance to the treatment. Rather, its content

This is a Psychology Tools information handout. Suggested uses include:

• Client handout – use as a psychoeducation resource
• Discussion point – use to provoke a discussion and explore client beliefs
• Therapist learning tool – improve your familiarity with a psychological construct
• Teaching resource – use as a learning tool during training

• Fairburn, C. G., Cooper, Z., Shafran, R. (2003). Cognitive behaviour therapy for eating disorders: a “transdiagnostic” theory and treatment. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 41, 509-528.