A grounded theory approach to the phenomenon of pro-anorexia

Abstract

This research looked at the thoughts and feelings expressed by visitors to pro-anorexic websites to find out how they felt about anorexia and why they used pro-anorexic sites. Using grounded theory (Strauss A, Corbin J. 1998. Basics of qualitative research: Techniques and procedures for developing grounded theory. 2nd ed. London: Sage), the information expressed by 176 participants on two pro-anorexic message boards and one online journal over eight frequently occurring topics was analysed. People believe in pro-anorexia because they want anorexic behaviours and feel positive towards them, however, anorexia could also be considered a problem at times when for some it was constituted a disorder with negative implications. Depictions of anorexia were very diverse. It is suggested that health professionals need to take into account the anorexic individual's perspectives of their anorexia in order that more successful treatment can be given. Additional research into anorexic's perspectives needs to be conducted to further develop understandings of anorexia and the ways it is viewed by those who have it.