In this type of family, daughters are expected to fulfill the role of a devoted and sensitive person. In bulimic systems, therapy centers on particular treatment for perfect, overprotective, and chaotic families. One model for treating bulimics is the transgenerational model. In this model, the family legacy is examined. Purging is seen as a symbol for rejection of the family's love or other intangible things.
Ego deficits occur when the mother was insufficient in giving loving care.
Therefore, this therapy aims at correcting the ego deficits. The internal family systems model looks at parallel interactions within the family. They suggest that schools teach children better interpersonal skills, self-concept, and organizational skills. In doing so, adolescents were be prepared to handle conflict within the family unit. Independence can be achieved by enhancing self-awareness and understanding.