An investigation of illness perceptions and identity construction among Maltese women recovered from bulimia nervosa

Abstract

This study investigated perceptions of Bulimia Nervosa as held by Maltese women who recovered from this eating disorder. The secondary aims of the research were to explore whether local social and cultural factors affect an individual’s experience of bulimia, and also to investigate the impact of bulimia on women’s identity before and after recovery. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight participants who were recruited via purposive sampling. The data was analysed using a Reflexive Thematic Analysis approach as described by Braun & Clarke (2019). Findings shed light on the beliefs and perceptions that recovered individuals hold about bulimia, and on the implications that these might have had on their help-seeking and health behaviour. The findings also looked into the experience of bulimia within a Maltese context, and described how sociocultural factors such as local food practices and public perceptions of bulimia might impact a person who is affected by this disorder. Lastly, the findings discussed the impact of bulimia on an individual’s identity, and explored how identity changes along the course of bulimia and recovery from it. In conclusion, this research outlined various recommendations for clinical practice, policymakers, and future research in relation to the areas of eating disorders and health psychology.