Qualitative Psychology, Vol 11(3), Oct 2024, 328-347; doi:10.1037/qup0000299
Despite an increase in the number of male adolescents experiencing disordered eating, the number entering treatment remains low. Accordingly, significant gaps continue to exist in our understanding of male adolescents’ experience within treatment. This may result from limitations in the amount of research undertaken in the area; however, it may also result from the continued influence of established theoretical models of disordered eating. While models such as Fairburn et al.’s (2003) transdiagnostic model of eating disorders have been foundational in the classification, assessment, and treatment of disordered eating, they may also have inadvertently skewed perceptions of adolescent eating disorders. Evidence suggests that the traditional focus on a “thin” body ideal may apply more to females than males. By contrast, male adolescents may pursue a larger body with increased emphasis on muscularity and, therefore, weight gain. This study aimed to investigate the experiences of 10 male adolescents aged between 13 and 19 years who were undergoing treatment for eating disorders. The study explored participants’ diagnosis and treatment experiences using a demographic survey and semistructured interview. Framework analysis revealed five eating disorder themes and 11 subthemes. These may assist our understanding of male adolescents’ experience of eating disorders, their identification, diagnosis, and treatment. The findings highlight the influence of current theoretical models with respect to diagnostic labeling and individualized treatment approaches. They underscore the importance of the client–psychologist connection and the stigma and isolation that male adolescents may experience prior to and during treatment for eating disorders. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved)