[The importance of school achievements in adolescents with anorectic disorders].

The question of pathologic roots of achievement patterns in girls and boys suffering from anorectic disorders is investigated by empirical and theoretical means. Records of 59 inpatients were reviewed with special emphasis on premorbid school achievement and its development during therapy. 44 completed a catamnestic questionnaire or interview. 10 students performed better, 10 worse. The latter differed in severity of clinical symptoms, duration of stay and continuing therapy, improvement in aggressiveness, recurring menstruation and changes in family interactions. Results are discussed regarding psychodynamic issues.