Classification of child and adolescent eating disturbances

OBJECTIVE: : The purpose of this article is to summarize major conceptual and clinical variables related to age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate classification of eating problems and disorders in children and adolescents. METHOD: A review of current classifications and related literature in child development is provided. Problems with current classification schemes are identified and discussed. RESULTS: Current classifications are inadequate to address the clinical and research needs of children and adolescents with eating disturbances and disorders. CONCLUSION: A range of possible changes in classification strategies for eating disorders in children and adolescents are described.