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An off‐line pilot evaluation of a web‐based systemic cognitive‐behavioral intervention for carers of people with anorexia nervosa
Author(s) -
Grover Miriam,
Williams Chris,
Eisler Ivan,
Fairbairn Pennie,
McCloskey Catherine,
Smith Grainne,
Treasure Janet,
Schmidt Ulrike
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
international journal of eating disorders
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.785
H-Index - 138
eISSN - 1098-108X
pISSN - 0276-3478
DOI - 10.1002/eat.20871
Subject(s) - intervention (counseling) , anorexia nervosa , distress , anxiety , psychology , cognition , depression (economics) , clinical psychology , mental health , psychiatry , eating disorders , psychotherapist , economics , macroeconomics
Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a novel systemic cognitive behavior therapy‐based intervention for carers of people with anorexia nervosa (AN). The intervention provides information and promotes skills development in managing the illness. Carers were also offered professional support. Method: Twenty‐seven carers were recruited. Outcomes measuring carer distress, experience of care‐giving, level of expressed emotion and problem solving were measured pre‐ and post‐intervention and at follow‐up. Carers also gave feedback. Results: There was a significant reduction in carers' anxiety and depression, negative experiences of caregiving and expressed emotion and a significant increase in positive experiences in caregiving after the intervention. Most improvements were maintained at follow‐up. The intervention was well received. Discussion: The results of this pilot study indicate that the intervention is acceptable to carers and may have a positive impact on carers' mental health and experience of care‐giving. Further investigation of the intervention is warranted. © 2010 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2010)