What can we learn from consumer studies and qualitative research in the treatment of eating disorders?

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to review all qualitative research and questionnaire surveys with people who have experienced an eating disorder or received treatment for it. Studies were identified on PubMed and PsychInfo. Twenty-three studies were identified and key findings are reviewed. Support and understanding are critical aspects of treatment perceived as helpful. Empathic relationships, whether professional or non-professional, were reported as essential to recovery. Psychological interventions (counselling and therapy) are the most popular and perceived as the most helpful. Many patients report that "medical interventions" were unhelpful. Interventions which focus exclusively on weight are reported negatively and many studies identify the importance of addressing wider issues than food and weight in treatment.

The process of recovery in eating disorder sufferers' own words: An Internet-based study

“…However, it also supports previous observations that anorexic patients are often critical when excessive attention is paid to weight restoration in treatment settings over other aspects of recovery, particularly close relationships. 23 Willpower and ceasing to identify with an eating disorder were also seen as having an important role in recovery-so important that the effects of treatment and professional help were conditional to the individual's personal motivation to recover. Thus, negotiating treatment goals based on both the patients' and experts' understanding of desirable outcome may lead to a greater involvement of patients in treatment.…”

Evaluating the treatment of eating disorders from the patient's perspective

“…Most studies were case studies or small samples. In her review, Bell 4 mentioned many methodological weaknesses, such as low response rate or poorly defined treatment categories, of a number of these studies. During the last 15 years the evaluation of treatment of EDs from the patient's perspective has been a topic of only four studies with a sample size greater than 100.…”

Treatment perception in adolescent onset anorexia nervosa: Retrospective views of patients and parents

“…These participants may differ significantly from patients with eating disorders (ED) treated by health services. [9][10][11] Knowledge is lacking on whether client satisfaction is related to outcome in patients with ED.…”

“…11,17 Patients with AN often report negative treatment experiences. 9,10,15,[18][19][20] Studies of client satisfaction in ED indicate that patients tend to be most satisfied with the therapeutic alliance and less satisfied with treatment elements aimed at restoration of physical health.…”