Abstract
Within the ever evolving field of mental health, it is becoming more apparent that we have the knowledge and the tools to help individuals live healthy lives. However, in many cases, that information and instruction are disseminated too late for an individual to utilize. Within this current study, the focus is on the need for a better understanding of the role the behavioral family system has in the development, maintenance, and function of eating disorders (Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified). Using an existing clinical tool, the genogram, we applied this to a clinical research study and examined its utility in a sample of females with eating disorders (n = 24). This accessible clinical research tool may assist in identifying risk for disordered eating as well as identifying trends of poor mental health/coping skills across family generations that a therapist can utilize easily in a clinical setting. Primary results within this study indicate a connection between Perfect Family Subtypes and disordered eating when compared to Overprotective Family Subtypes. Additionally, the role of the mother appears to have significant connection to risk of disordered eating such as self- esteem, and body satisfaction. With this research there is the possibility of earlier clinical intervention strategies based on identified family subtypes and behavioral patterns of past family generations..