Male vs Female Treatment Experiences in Eating Disorder Treatment




The Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast show

Summary: In this podcast Tabitha talks to Philipa Hay about recent research that looked into male autobiographies of eating disorders and recovery experiences.  Link to the full research paper --> https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5485468/ Study Abstract Eating disorders are increasingly recognized as a problem for men but help-seeking is low and little is known about their treatment experiences. This paper sought to determine the treatment experiences of men who have suffered from an eating disorder using autobiographical data. Inclusion criteria were autobiographies of men who had experienced an eating disorder and sought any form of treatment for this, written in the English language, published between 1995 and 2015, and available for purchase in 2016. The search resulted in six books that were thematically analyzed. Analysis of data resulted in two broad themes (1. Positive experiences; 2. Negative experiences) with sub-themes. With regards to the first theme, factors such as concern of staff members, therapist’s expertise (in treating eating disorders in men), and a collaborative treatment approach were considered favorable for treatment. In contrast to the first theme, apathy of staff members, the authors’ own negative preconceptions, treatment providers being perceived as prioritizing financial concerns, perceived as incompetent and judgmental behavior of therapist(s), and time limitations of sessions were considered unfavorable treatment experiences. In this study, the perceived success of treatment depended on therapist’s features and the form of treatment provided. Further research examining these is indicated.   Support this podcast via Patreon! You can support this podcast and ensure the continuation of it by pledging a patreon donation here: https://www.patreon.com/Eating_Disorder_Recovery_Podcast We want your feedback on these podcasts! Please take a second to fill out this survey with feedback so we can make these podcasts even better: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/BSQ7BBM Subscribe to these podcasts in iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/eating-disorder-recovery-podcast/id1138563928?mt=2 Community Links: Adults in recovery community Slack Group: http://tabithafarrar.com/slack-forum/ Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/EDMealSupport/