The program is preceded by an introductory evening, where families meet
each other and the treatment team and general expectations are shared
around attendance at the group. A formal presentation is given by a medical
member of the team outlining the physical risks associated with BN.
Information is also shared about the body’s digestion of food and absorption
of calories, highlighting the ineffectiveness of purging and laxative use as a
means to prevent weight gain. The aim of this presentation is to highlight the
seriousness of the condition to develop motivation to change in all family
members, as well as to convey a sense of expertise held within the team.
In this introductory session parents and young people are given the opportunity
to meet with members of a graduate family with the aim of engendering
hope in the possibility of change.