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DO'S AND DON'TS FOR PARENTS OF ADOLESCENTS <br /> DO: WITH AN EATING DISORDER <br /> 1. Do acknowledge that an eating disorder is a serious <br /> not just a "phase" the adolescent is problem, <br /> going through. <br /> 2. Do observe your child's behavior, and trust your sus <br /> about what is normal or strange for him/her. picions <br /> 3. Do realize that some issues are related to the eating <br /> disorder, but not all--some behaviors, although troublesome <br /> are normal for adolescence--not everything is the result of <br /> the eating disorder. <br /> 4. Do allow your adolescent to be in charge of his/her daily life <br /> as much as possible (or reasonable) --do encourage independent <br /> decision making. <br /> 5. Do ask questions of the professional involved in caring for <br /> your child--no question is too insignificant or silly. It is <br /> very important that you have a good understanding of the <br /> eating disorder and how this may impact your child and family. <br /> 6. Do express your love or caring for the adolescent in both <br /> physical and verbal ways--children need to feel and hear love <br /> and acceptance no matter how old they are (so do adults! ) . <br /> 7. Do share with your child information about your own <br /> adolescence, in a non-comparative way--let him/her know that <br /> it's a rocky time for everyone and you can understand some of <br /> the feelings. <br /> 8. Do focus on your child's efforts, not the achievements, "I 'm <br /> so proud of you for trying/hanging in there/doing this even <br /> though it's hard" vs. "Good, you've gained weight/got an <br /> A/etc. " <br /> 9. Do focus upon the needs of all family members and your own <br /> needs--the adolescent with an eating disorder can easily take <br /> 1l, of your time and attention. <br /> 10. Do attempt to maintain a "normal" life in spite of the eating includes social, recreational functions, family <br /> traditions, holiday activities, etc. Don't structure the <br /> entire family life to accommodate the eating disorder. <br /> 11. Do participate in family therapy--when this is recommended. <br /> Your ongoing involvement and support is very important to your <br /> child's recovery. <br /> 12. Do talk to your child about the eating disorder, and <br /> everything else. <br /> 15 <br />