Cultural factors in orthodox Jewish adolescents treated in a day program for eating disorders

This study explores the specific role of culture and religion in the development of eating disorders (ED) in Orthodox Jewish female adolescents. We present eight cases admitted to a Day Treatment Program (DTP) for Eating Disorders. Additionally, some preliminary comparisons are examined between Orthodox and all other patients, and also between ultra and modern Orthodox patients. All eight adolescents were transferred from inpatient care, three met program treatment goals, two left prematurely, and three required re-hospitalization. The only significant differences between the Orthodox group and all other patients were on length of stay in the DTP and current use of psychotropic medications. Overall, results suggest that Orthodox patients and all other patients show similar ED presentation and course. However, there are unique cultural and religious circumstances, which require consultation with rabbinic authorities.