Return to school

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Experiences of returning to school following treatment for an eating disorder.

  • IRAS ID

    337399

  • Contact name

    Becky Gardner

  • Contact email

    beckygardner95@hotmail.co.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    University of Southampton

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    1 years, 0 months, 31 days

  • Research summary

    This study aims to explore the experiences of children and young adults of returning to school following a leave of absence for treatment of an eating disorder.
    Interviews will be conducted with individuals who have reintegrated back into school within the last 10 years in order to explore any key challenges during this time and reflect upon areas of support they received or could be developed.

    Three themes were identified: ‘adjusting to being back’, ‘communication and understanding’, and ‘reintegrating as part of recovery’. Returning to school was described as overwhelming, with challenges around re-adjusting to the environment and social interactions. Involvement in planning, clear communication and ongoing support were identified as aiding successful reintegration. Although there were challenges involved with managing the eating disorder, many felt reintegration was beneficial and was viewed as part of the recovery process.

  • REC name

    South Central - Berkshire Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    24/SC/0200

  • Date of REC Opinion

    3 Jul 2024

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion