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Recovery from anorexia nervosa: a sociological perspective
1Department of Behavioural and Social Science, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Western Sydney, Nepean, Australia.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|April 1, 1997
Summary
This study explores sociological factors in anorexia nervosa recovery, viewing it as a rite of passage. Recovery involves confronting death and reintegrating into community life.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder with significant psychological and social components.
- Existing research often focuses on clinical etiology and treatment, with less emphasis on the recovery process itself.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the sociological, rather than clinical, reasons for recovery from anorexia nervosa.
- To understand the lived experiences of individuals recovering from anorexia nervosa.
Main Methods:
- Phenomenological study involving 32 former anorexia nervosa sufferers.
- Analysis of participants' recovery narratives, including the author's own experience.
- Focus on identifying social sources contributing to recovery.
Main Results:
- Recovery narratives exhibit coherence, mythological structures, and distinct rituals.
- Participants described their recovery process as having a "spiritual" dimension.
- Social factors play a crucial role in the recovery journey.
Conclusions:
- Anorexia nervosa and recovery can be conceptualized as phases of an ascetic rite of passage.
- This process involves confronting mortality and re-engaging with community.
- Insights from this study can inform clinical practices for anorexia nervosa recovery.