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Perceptions of bed rest by anorexic patients
R Griffiths1, G Gross, J Russell
1Department of Psychology, University of Sydney, Australia.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|April 30, 1998
Summary
Anorexic patients often view bed rest negatively, primarily due to isolation and boredom, not punishment. Individualization and distraction are desired to improve the bed rest experience in anorexia nervosa treatment.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Behavioral Therapy
Background:
- Operant conditioning is used in anorexia nervosa treatment.
- The Bed Rest (BR) component is part of some operant conditioning programs.
- Patient perceptions of BR are not well-studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine anorexic patients' perceptions of the Bed Rest (BR) component.
- To understand patient attitudes towards BR in treatment.
Main Methods:
- Survey administered to 48 anorexic inpatients.
- Collected data on patient attitudes towards BR.
Main Results:
- Most patients perceived BR negatively.
- Primary complaints were isolation and boredom, not punishment or humiliation.
- Patients desired more individualization, distraction, and less restriction during BR.
Conclusions:
- BR can be used humanely in anorexia nervosa treatment.
- Patient perceptions of BR require systematic attention.
- Treatment protocols should consider patient feedback for improved outcomes.