Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) in a specialist inpatient eating disorder service for children and adolescents: CAN-CRT study protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial

Eur Eat Disord Rev. 2018 Sep;26(5):438-446. doi: 10.1002/erv.2592. Epub 2018 Mar 26.

Abstract

Introduction: Research on treatments for young people (YP) with anorexia nervosa (AN) is scarce. Evidence supports the use of cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) to improve central coherence and set-shifting, inefficiencies that can negatively impact on prognosis.

Objective: The study aims to evaluate the feasibility of individual CRT in an inpatient setting for YP aged 10-18 years with AN and to qualitatively examine YP's and their parents experiences.

Method: In a single-centre, pilot, randomised controlled trial, 80 patients aged 10-18 years with AN will be randomly allocated to the immediate or delayed CRT group, in addition to standard treatment. A repeated measures design will be conducted across 3 time points.

Discussion: The data will provide evidence regarding the feasibility of individual CRT in YP with AN, informing directions of further development of CRT. The study is in preparation for a definitive randomised controlled trial. The aim of this manuscript is to describe the study protocol.

Keywords: RCT; anorexia nervosa; children and adolescents; cognitive remediation therapy; treatment.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anorexia Nervosa / psychology
  • Anorexia Nervosa / therapy*
  • Child
  • Cognitive Remediation / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Inpatients*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Treatment Outcome

Associated data

  • ISRCTN/ISRCTN81736780