Eating disorders: psychodynamic approach and practice

In the psychodynamic approach we understand the defensive meaning of anorec tic and bulimic conduct, and its value as a reorganizing of objective relat ions: difficulties in investing, antagonism between the objective inclinati on of these patients and the need to protect their narcissistic balance. Th e avoidance of depression linked to a compensatory juxtaposed narcissistic schema must be appreciated in order to understand the developing risks in t hese behaviours. The psychopathological significance of these behaviours, t heir stakes, and their therapeutic consequences are discussed. (C) 2001 Edi tions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.