Straight, Bumpy, or Detoured: Three roads through family-based treatment for Anorexia Nervosa - a qualitative study of parents' experiences.

Objective

To explore parents' experiences of Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for Anorexia Nervosa (AN). Method: Twenty semi-structured interviews with parents of young people (YP) in FBT at end of treatment (EOT), analysed via a combination of thematic and narrative analysis.

Results

The analysis identified three distinct themes, starting from a shared point of crisis marked by acute concern for their child's health and urgent need for intervention. Parents then travelled different routes shaped by challenges, support, and meanings they made over time. The Straight Road reflected strong alignment with FBT; parents found the process demanding but ultimately experienced strengthened relationships through shared recovery. The Bumpy Road was defined by initial disagreements with FBT and efforts to negotiate a more collaborative role for the YP, leading to deepened family relations. The Detoured Road was shaped by misalignment with FBT, often involving unmet support needs and relational strain not fully resolved by EOT.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that alignment with the principles of FBT plays a central role in shaping parental experiences. However, parents commonly described intense caregiving and strained family ties. Findings highlight the importance of assessing and supporting parental alignment with FBT, as misalignment may exacerbate caregiving strain and disrupt family dynamics.