The present study is a critical analysis of the literature about motivation in the treatment of anorexia nervosa. This dissertation provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical and empirical literature on motivation to change in the treatment of anorexia nervosa, including discussion of the support for factors hypothesized to be associated with treatment motivation as well as identification of factors that require additional study. It will also provide conceptual clarity of motivation as a construct in anorexia nervosa treatment research. Current literature reveals how differences in the way motivation is conceptualized, studied, and assessed may limit our understanding of its role in anorexia nervosa treatment. Recommendations are therefore made regarding the adoption of a more consistent and shared understanding of the construct.