This study examined how individuals in recovery from eating disorders (ED) perceived and experienced eating disorder voice (EDV). EDs affect up to 5% of the general population. Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is the deadliest of all mental health illnesses, with particularly high fatality rates and elevated risks in other EDs compared to the wider population. EDV is experienced by up to 96.2% of ED sufferers. EDV is not presently part of the diagnosis criteria stipulated for any ED by the DSM-5. Yet, it has been demonstrated to have a significant role in both the preliminary development and continuation of ED. The majority of existing EDV research focuses on AN within treatment. In contrast, this study examined the experiences of individuals with a variety of different EDs, including Binge Eating Disorder and Bulimia. This qualitative study of 20 participants utilized a semi-structured interview approach and followed reflexive thematic analysis. The interview schedule explored the function, content, origins, and intention of EDV and participant relationships. Five themes were identified: ‘EDV is the root of the ED and recovery comes from addressing it’, ‘The differences in EDVs between types of EDs’, ‘EDV wants to help and protect me’, ‘EDV wants to hurt and destroy me’, and ‘Power and control between EDV and host’. The study recommends that EDV be included in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition diagnostic criteria and treatment for EDs. Future research is needed in this area to further understand EDV and enable enhanced diagnosis of ED and treatment addressing EDV directly.

Eating disorder, anorexia, eating disorder voice, recovery, DSM-5

Applied Psychology Around the World | Volume 7, Issue 2