The Effectiveness of Psychological Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa in Adolescents: A Critical Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

The evidence base remains limited, with few RCTs in adolescents with AN and a geographically narrow, demographically homogeneous sample, predominantly girls from Western settings. Family therapy is supported as the first-line treatment, yet substantial uncertainties persist. Larger and more inclusive RCTs are needed to clarify mechanisms of change, long-term outcomes, and the effectiveness of individual-focused approaches.