Babb, Charli, Jones, Catherine RG and Fox, John RE 
ORCID: 0000-0003-3039-8024
(2022)
Investigating service users' perspectives of eating disorder services: A meta-synthesis.
CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY & PSYCHOTHERAPY, 29 (4).
pp. 1276-1296.
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Abstract
<h4>Objective</h4>Despite a number of qualitative studies published from the perspective of eating disorder (ED) service users, there has been no attempt to exclusively synthesize their views to gain a fuller understanding of their ED service experiences. It is important to understand this perspective, since previous research highlights the difficulties ED healthcare professionals report when working with this client group.<h4>Method</h4>A systematic search of the literature was conducted to identify qualitative studies focusing on experiences of ED services from the perspective of service users. Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria and underwent a quality appraisal check using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool for qualitative research. These were then synthesized using a meta-synthesis approach.<h4>Results</h4>Four overarching themes were generated: "Treatment: Focus on physical vs. psychological symptoms"; "Service Environment: The role of control within services"; "Staff: Experiences with staff and the value of rapport"; and "Peer Influence: Camaraderie vs. comparison." Service users expressed a desire for more psychological input to tackle underlying difficulties relating to their ED. A complex relationship with feelings of control was described, with some feeling over-controlled by service providers, while others retrospectively recognized the need for control to be taken away. Staff values, knowledge and trust played a significant role in treatment and recovery. Peers with an ED were described to be a valuable source of understanding and empathy, but some found peer influence to perpetuate comparison and competitiveness.<h4>Discussion</h4>The results portray some of the conflicts and complexities that service users encounter in ED services. A running thread throughout is the perceived importance of adopting an individualized approach within these services.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | eating disorders, lived experience, mental health, mental health services, meta-synthesis, qualitative research |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health |
| Depositing User: | Symplectic Admin |
| Date Deposited: | 31 Jan 2023 16:15 |
| Last Modified: | 31 Jan 2023 16:16 |
| DOI: | 10.1002/cpp.2723 |
| Open Access URL: | https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.2723 |
| Related URLs: | |
| URI: | https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3168030 |
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