Clinical Report: Boys, Men with Eating Disorders: Who’s Trained to Help?
Overview
A recent study highlights significant gaps in knowledge and training among outpatient psychotherapists treating boys and men with eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia. Despite treating these patients, many clinicians reported low confidence and limited formal training in these areas.
Background
Eating disorders (EDs) are complex psychiatric conditions that can lead to severe physical and psychological consequences. The prevalence of EDs among boys and men is often underrecognized, leading to inadequate treatment approaches. Understanding the training needs of clinicians is crucial for improving care and outcomes for this population.
Data Highlights
| Finding | Percentage |
|---|---|
| No knowledge of eating disorders in boys and men | 27% |
| No knowledge of muscle dysmorphia | 44% |
| Formal training during education | 14% |
| Formal training after education | 26% |
| Identified as eating disorder specialists | 12% |
Key Findings
- 27% of clinicians reported no knowledge of eating disorders in boys and men.
- 44% reported no knowledge of muscle dysmorphia.
- Only 14% received formal training during their education.
- 64% of clinicians expressed a need for additional training on symptom presentations.
- 12% of clinicians identified as eating disorder specialists.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians treating boys and men with eating disorders should seek additional training to enhance their understanding and treatment capabilities. Addressing the identified gaps in knowledge and confidence is essential for providing effective care to this population.
Conclusion
The study underscores the urgent need for improved training and resources for clinicians treating boys and men with eating disorders. Enhancing clinician competence may lead to better patient outcomes in this often-overlooked demographic.
References
- BMC Psychiatry (Springer), 2025 -- Navigating an instagram community for eating disorder recovery: a qualitative study of users’ motivation and confidence to change
- BMC Psychiatry (Springer), 2025 -- Experiences with family relationships following eating disorders: a roller coaster of emotions
- BMC Psychiatry (Springer), 2025 -- National implementation of guided self-help family-based treatment for youth with eating disorders: a study protocol
- AAFP, 2024 -- Treating Patients With Eating Disorders: Guidelines From the American Psychiatric Association
- 2025 -- The Efficacy of Individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
- BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — Investigating Health-Seeking Patterns in Men with Previous Suicide Attempts: A Qualitative Analysis from Germany
- Muscle dysmorphia in adolescents and young adults - PMC
- Treating Patients With Eating Disorders: Guidelines From the American Psychiatric Association | AAFP
- The Efficacy of Individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
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