Anorexia nervosa: Family experiences about the start of suffering, treatment, relapse and remission

Introduction Anorexia nervosa is a suffering entity from eating disorders and family has a relevant role in this disorders; a severe family dysfunction is a risk factor and an important maintainer factor. On the other hand, the family's participation in treatment increases the possibility of success. The aim of this paper is to contribute with the analysis of the form on which the subjects, who suffer from anorexia nervosa and their parents, coexist with their suffering, and share their story. Materials and methods It is a qualitative research study that pretends to know about the family's experiences. The informants where selected according to a theoretical non probabilistic sample. Depth interviews were used and the material was analyzed through a narrative analysis by thematic axis according to Kolher Riessman model. Results The presented family is formed by three members, mother, father and daughter, with anorexia nervosa. Presenting excessively restrictive behaviors oscillating between control and impulsivity. The mother turns her into her confident and the father is too strict and demanding. Concerning the treatment, it lasted approximately three years on impasse, the patient did not show any evolution. Discussion The four evolution moments of the suffering had several points of view according to each of the informants, in literature, the mother and daughter's symbiotic relationship and the peripheral relationship established with the father are mentioned, change was achieved in the family alliances and the change in the nature of their bonds was facilitated. Conclusions These findings are an initial step to know the experiences of each of the family members during the treatment and the expectations they have towards the remission of the suffering.