State the most accurate diagnosis possible. Then state the most effective way to

Question

State the most accurate diagnosis possible. Then state the most effective way to treat the client. Mary is a 20 year old woman who reports she is terrified of eating in public. This fear is so intense that she declines two offers to go out to dinner. Her friends do not understand her unwillingness to eat in public and are starting to feel alienated. In addition , she will only go on dates where she does not have to eat. On one occasion, when her parents tried to force her to eat in a public restaurant, she began to sweat and tremble and demand to be taken home immediately.

Explanation / Answer

The fear of eating in public can be beacuse of a negative evaluation that encompasses both social anxiety and aspects of disordered eating. It is a specific fear that forms a part of social phobia. It also includes worries which might be going inside Mary's mind as shaking of hands, the fear of spilling food, choking of food, vomiting. It also relates to the fear of being watched or judged by others while eating. Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa can be linked to this disorder.

The most effective way for treatment includes the use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in singles or in groups to identify and eliminate the negative thoughts going on inside Mary's mind when the question arises of eating in public. Replacement of the thoughts with rational thinking patterns, involvement of exposure training where the other group members facing the same problem would act as dining companions to help in practicing eating habits in public. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors may be prescribed if the client does not respond to the above therapies.

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