Self empowering strategies for recovery from anorexia and bulimia nervosa : an exploratory study

• Main Author: Botbol, Louna Nicole
• Published: 2012
• Subjects: Anorexia nervosa > Research > South Africa; Bulimia > Research > South Africa; Anorexia nervosa > Treatment > Research > South Africa; Bulimia > Treatment > Research > South Africa
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5771

M.A. === In this project the researcher explores, analyses and interprets the narratives of seven women who have recovered from anorexia and/or bulimia. The investigation is conveyed from the sufferers' point of view, an approach suggestive of a qualitative inquiry, and is formulated within a qualitative theoretical and methodological framework. Linear approaches like the medical model, that endorse a pathological view of mental and emotional problems, are challenged for contributing to the notion of a defect model of mental illness. The dominant view that psychological and emotional problems like physical illnesses should be treated and eradicated, is contextualised within the framework of a defect model of mental illness. The researcher proposes that this position disempowers the recipients of therapy, can become a self fulfilling prophecy, and ultimately furthers the argument that emotionally disturbed people are sick. Concepts from systems theory such as homeostasis and dialectic thinking, are cited to illustrate the rationale behind the notion of a `competency' model of mental illness. The continuance of either anorexic or bulimic behavior is seen as playing a central role in the maintenance of an equilibrium (albeit a painful one) in the sufferer's personal and family system - thus serving a purpose. The researcher subsequently proposes that it can be beneficial to view an eating disorder as a milestone, where from much good can be derived.