Evaluating an online family-based treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa

Confirming the Effectiveness and Efficiency of Online Guided Self-Help Family-Based Treatment for Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10899747

This study is testing an online self-help program for families to support teenagers with anorexia nervosa, to see if it can help them improve their eating habits and gain weight more efficiently than regular therapy, making it easier for families to get the help they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10899747 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates an online guided self-help version of Family Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents suffering from anorexia nervosa. The study aims to confirm that this approach can achieve clinical improvements in eating behaviors and weight with greater efficiency compared to traditional FBT. By utilizing significantly less therapist time, the online treatment could make effective care more accessible to families. Participants will engage in a structured program that supports both the adolescent and their family in overcoming the challenges of anorexia nervosa.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and their families who are seeking effective treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with anorexia nervosa or those who do not have access to the internet may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more accessible and efficient treatment option for adolescents with anorexia nervosa and their families.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for guided self-help approaches in treating eating disorders, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.