Use this URL to cite or link to this record in EThOS: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.586584
Title: Exploring the experiences of siblings of young people diagnosed with an 'eating disorder'
Author: Moses, Davina
ISNI:       0000 0004 2749 4223
Awarding Body: University of East London
Current Institution: University of East London
Date of Award: 2013
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Abstract:
Background and Aims: Research focused on the families of children and adolescents diagnosed with an ‘eating disorder’ has long suggested an impact on the family and individual family members. It is increasingly acknowledged through research and clinical practice that siblings can play an important part in the support and recovery of young people diagnosed with an ‘eating disorder’. However, less is known about the views of siblings in this context and the ways in which they might experience the situation. The use of the sibling perspective in qualitative psychological research is emerging however, a limited number of studies specific to the field of ‘eating disorders’ have used such methods. The current study therefore aimed to find out what siblings said about the experiences of living with a brother or sister diagnosed with an ‘eating disorder’. The study aimed to hear about their experiences; the ways in which they felt the situation might impact on their lives; and their views about professional support. Method: Semi-structured interviews were carried out with six siblings all aged between 11 and 18 years. All had a sibling diagnosed with an ‘eating disorder’ who had, or was receiving professional support for this. Verbatim interview transcripts were analysed using Thematic Analysis. Results: The analysis produced five main themes. These were: ‘Making sense of it all’; “Home’s not how I remember”; “It impacts me too’; “To talk or not to talk?”; and “Life goes on”. A description of these themes and associated sub-themes is presented. Conclusion: Siblings report experiencing impact in a number of aspects of their lives and within family life. The results of the analysis offer support for previous findings within the sibling literature and further justify the need for on-going, wider research using sibling accounts. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Supervisor: Not available Sponsor: Not available
Qualification Name: Thesis (D.Clin.Psych.) Qualification Level: Doctoral
EThOS ID: uk.bl.ethos.586584  DOI:
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