Close relationships and disordered eating: Partner perspectives.
The role and potential significance of romantic partners have been acknowledged in the eating disorder literature; yet, few studies have addressed partner perspectives, and none of these have involved dating relationships or considered the implications of the initiation of recovery for partner perceptions. In this study, common themes in the analysis of 12 partner interviews included changing understandings of disordered eating, development of strategies to support their partners, and lack of resources. In addition, participants whose partners did not initiate recovery reported confusion and helplessness, while those whose partners initiated recovery expressed responsibility for and gratification in the positive changes.
1 YWCA, Columbus, OH, USA.
Samantha E
SE
Schmit
2 Texas Tech University, TX, USA.
Nancy J
NJ
Bell
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012747:Sexual Partners / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult
dating relationships; disordered eating; partner perspectives; recovery; young adults