Narratives of self and body compassion in CBT-10 for BED Version 1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring narratives of development of self and body compassion over the course of Brief Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Non-Underweight Patients (CBT-10) for Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
IRAS ID
364518
Contact name
Eshika Kafle
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Plymouth
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 31 days
Research summary
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a common eating disorder where people regularly eat large amounts of food while feeling out of control and distressed. Many individuals with BED also struggle with feelings of shame, low self-worth, and self-criticism. Compassion towards oneself and one’s body is thought to play an important role in recovery, yet little is known about how people develop self-compassion, more generally, and body compassion, specifically, during therapy.
This study aims to explore how people experience changes in their relationship with themselves and their bodies while taking part in a specific talking therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Non-Underweight Eating Disorders (CBT-10). CBT-10 is a standard brief, structured treatment used within NHS eating disorder services to help people manage thoughts, feelings, and behaviours linked to binge eating.
Participants who have been assessed with BED and are about to begin CBT-10 will be invited to take part. They will be asked to write two short “letters of body compassion” — one before therapy and one after therapy — and to take part in a one-hour online interview after completing their treatment. The interview will explore their experiences of self-compassion, body compassion, and personal change during therapy.
All data will be kept confidential and anonymised. Participants will receive up to a £40 voucher to thank them for their time (£10 per letter and £20 for taking part in an interview).
The study will be carried out by a trainee clinical psychologist at the University of Plymouth, in collaboration with the Sussex Eating Disorder Service (SPIRED). The findings are intended to improve understanding of recovery from BED and inform how therapists can better support compassion and body acceptance in future treatment approaches.
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/NW/0121
Date of REC Opinion
19 May 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion