"I would love to have online support but I don't trust it": Positive and negative views of technology from the perspective of those with eating disorders in Canada

Health Soc Care Community. 2018 Jul;26(4):604-612. doi: 10.1111/hsc.12557. Epub 2018 Mar 1.

Abstract

This qualitative study aims to explore how individuals who are seeking help and support for eating disorders use various forms of technology. Fifteen participants, recruited from an Eating Disorder Program in a hospital setting and an eating disorder community support centre, voluntarily participated in focus groups and individual interviews in 2015. The authors used thematic analysis to code and analyse the qualitative data, and three themes were identified: safety, connection and technology development. This study identifies the need for technology use to be addressed and integrated into clinical services for eating disorders, as well as for safe and helpful technology tools to be developed for this population.

Keywords: Facebook; apps; eating disorder; safety; technology.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Canada
  • Confidentiality
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / psychology*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Love
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Safety
  • Qualitative Research
  • Telemedicine / organization & administration*
  • Trust*