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A Grounded Theory Exploration of the Onset of Anorexia in Adolescence
Author(s) -
Koruth Nina,
Nevison Charlotte,
Schwannauer Matthias
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
european eating disorders review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.511
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1099-0968
pISSN - 1072-4133
DOI - 10.1002/erv.1135
Subject(s) - anorexia , grounded theory , superordinate goals , psychology , eating disorders , psychological intervention , qualitative research , interpersonal communication , anorexia nervosa , developmental psychology , psychotherapist , alliance , interpersonal relationship , interpretative phenomenological analysis , clinical psychology , social psychology , psychiatry , medicine , social science , sociology , political science , law
Objectives Relatively little research has been conducted investigating the individual's point of view of anorexia. This research explored young people's experiences of the onset of anorexia. It was anticipated that this would improve clinicians' knowledge in this area, which could then inform establishing alliance and progress through interventions. Method A qualitative grounded theory design was employed. Eight participants aged between 13 and 17 years took part in an interview. The procedure of analysis involved moving between the interviews and generating codes. Results Superordinate themes emerged and the three main findings are presented. Firstly, it was found that emotions were experienced as overwhelming. Secondly, that the level of awareness of anorexia develops. Finally, that emotional responses and the level of awareness of anorexia impact on the ability to utilise interpersonal interactions. The findings shed light on the personal experiences of this time and help to highlight areas for clinicians to address. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.