The experience of specialist inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa: A qualitative study from adult patients' perspectives

Citation

Smith V, Chouliara Z, Morris PG, Collin P, Power KG, Yellowlees A, Grierson D, Papageorgiou E & Cook M (2016) The experience of specialist inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa: A qualitative study from adult patients' perspectives. Journal of Health Psychology, 21 (1), pp. 16-27. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105313520336

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.

Keywords
anorexia nervosa; experience; qualitative methods; thematic analysis; treatment

Journal
Journal of Health Psychology: Volume 21, Issue 1