Hello!
My name is Erin Ott and I am conducting a research study on parents’ experience of caring for a son with anorexia nervosa (AN). I am an advanced PhD candidate at Fordham University’s Counseling Psychology Program working under the supervision of Dr. Merle A. Keitel. I have experience working with individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
Why is this study important?
We know that when parents feel supported they are better able to meet the intense demands of caring for a child with an eating disorder. Although there is research on parents of children with anorexia, few studies have focused on parents of a son with anorexia and no studies have examined the coping strategies that are helpful for decreasing personal distress and preserving or strengthening the marriage.
What is the purpose of this study?
The intention of this study is to provide parents an opportunity to share their experience, which will provide other parents in similar situations a better understanding of what has allowed couples to effectively cope with their child’s anorexia. This study may also help treatment professionals identify ways to focus on parents’ strengths opposed to exclusive focus on their distress. The results of this study will help us gain insight into what, if any, are the specific needs of parents and families of sons with anorexia.
Supporting Parents of Sons with Anorexia 