The impact of eating disorders on family relationships

Having a child in crisis with an eating disorder impacts the entire family as well as the child. The family's emotional involvement, as well as such changes in routine involving appointments with thera-pists and support groups, all cause disruption to normal patterns and to family relationships. The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges that parents face and the changes that occur, particularly in relationships, when a child is diagnosed with an eating disorder, and how parents cope with these changes. A detailed questionnaire using both quantitative and qualitative questions was completed by 52 mothers in Ontario. The findings indicated that there is a significant impact on relationships correlated with age of child, personal leisure, and level of confusion in the family. The findings also showed contrasts in the way families cope with having a child in crisis, either very negatively or very positively. The qualitative anecdotes describe the tremendous strains and changes in patterns within families particularly during the initial period of diagnosis. The parents provide helpful recommendations for researchers, practitioners, and service providers.