Experience of carers of young people with AN and ASD receiving FBT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A qualitative exploration of the experience of caregivers of young people with a diagnosis of comorbid autism spectrum disorder and anorexia nervosa, and their experience of Family-Based Therapy
IRAS ID
318619
Contact name
Laura Pettitt
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Research Integrity and Governance Office (RIGO)
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 0 days
Research summary
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterised by an intense fear of weight gain, and restriction of food intake due to body image disturbances. Autism spectrum disorders are neurodevelopmental conditions characterised by difficulties in socio-communication and processing of sensory information, and patterns of restricted and repetitive behaviour. Anorexia Nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, and research has found that individuals with both autism spectrum disorders and Anorexia Nervosa are more likely to experience a longer duration of illness for Anorexia Nervosa, more severe presentations, and poorer treatment outcomes. Thus, improving understanding of the possible mechanisms underlying this association has potential for improving treatment outcomes and therefore is of ample importance. This will be an exploratory qualitative interview study, aiming to understand behavioural responses by caregivers of those with autism spectrum disorder and anorexia nervosa, and to understand their experiences of family-based therapy; the NICE-recommended treatment for young people with anorexia nervosa. Participants will take part in a one-90 minute interview and will be paid a £10 voucher for their time. Recruitment will be conducted through Dorset Eating Disorders Service and Surrey Eating Disorders Service.
REC name
East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC 1
REC reference
22/ES/0043
Date of REC Opinion
16 Nov 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion