City Research Online

Abstract

Despite anorexia nervosa (AN) being the psychiatric disorder with the highest mortality rate and one which significantly impacts one’s social functioning, there has been a dearth of research examining the experiences of romantic relationships in women who have had AN, especially those who are from Black and other minority ethnic groups. The limited research that does exist in this area has been overwhelmingly quantitative, signalling how the physical manifestations of AN may have taken priority over the subjective lived experiences of individuals. Thus, the present study aimed to explore how Black women, who have had AN, experience romantic relationships. Utilising a qualitative methodology – Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) – this research captures the experiences of romantic relationships in nine British Black women who have had AN. Five main themes emerged: ‘Something wrong with me?’; ‘Ambivalent about romantic relationships’; ‘Difficulties navigating boundaries’; ‘Complex relationship to sex and the body’; and ‘Reflections, hopes and fears’. The findings suggest that Black women who have had AN can experience strong ambivalence about romantic relationships and reveal that this disorder can be experienced as both a barrier to, and a facilitator of, intimacy. The study highlights how race and culture can conflate with AN which can isolate Black women in ways quite specific to them. The implications of the findings are considered, including how this research may help support ethical practice by showing sensitivity to the diversity in individuals’ experiences, particularly those from socially marginalised groups whose voices have historically been quietened. Suggestions are also made for future research.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Psychology School of Health & Psychological Sciences > School of Health & Psychological Sciences Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

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