The experience of specialist inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa: A qualitative study from adult patients' perspectives. (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smith, Vivien; Chouliara, Zoe; Morris, Paul G; Collin, Paula; Power, Kevin; Yellowlees, Alex; Grierson, David; Papageorgiou, Elena; Cook, Moira
• Is Part Of: Journal of health psychology. Volume 21:Number 1(2016:Jan.)
• Page Start: 16
• Page End: 27
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: anorexia nervosa -- experience -- qualitative methods -- thematic analysis -- treatment; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; 613.019
• DOI: 10.1177/1359105313520336
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1053

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore experiences of women currently undergoing specialist inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa. Interviews were carried out with 21 women with a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa from a specialist adult inpatient eating disorder unit. Five master themes emerged using thematic analysis: (1) shifts in control, (2) experience of transition, (3) importance of supportive staff relationships, (4) sharing with peers and (5) process of recovery and self-discovery. Findings suggest that patients experience a process of change and adjustment in relation to levels of perceived personal control, attachment to the treatment environment and a sense of self-identity.