Treatment Seeking for Binge Eating Disorder.

The aim of this thesis is to explore the process of treatment seeking for eating disorders (EDs). EDs are frequently associated with psychological distress and poor quality of life, and it is widely recognised that there is a large proportion of individuals with EDs who are not accessing appropriate specialist treatment. This is concerning given that delays in treatment have been associated with poorer outcomes. A review of the literature regarding the experience of treatment seeking for an ED was carried out, this included: anorexia nervosa (AN); bulimia nervosa (BN); eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS); binge eating disorder (BED); and sub-threshold eating difficulties. This review highlighted five themes across the papers; social stereotypes and norms; external factors; client (internal) factors; interpersonal factors; and gender. Critical review of eight papers found inconsistencies in the methods used for screening EDs and also large heterogeneity in the ED samples used. These methodological limitations should be taken into account when considering the findings. Paucity in research focusing specifically on treatment seeking for BED was highlighted. In response to this gap in the literature, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to explore the lived experience of people treatment seeking for BED. This analysis resulted in the following themes: the self as a barrier; the overlooked eating disorder; factors contributing to treatment seeking and disclosure; and making sense of BED. These findings are integral to engaging individuals with BED in services and ensuring that this often overlooked group are not left without appropriate treatment. These themes are considered in relation to existing theory; together with clinical implications and directions for future research. A reflective commentary considers personal reflections of completing the research; the influence of society on weight and shape; EDs and gender; and the controversial topic of psychiatric diagnosis.