An exploratory study of the families of bulimics from a systems perspective

Ing-van der Poel, Lilian

An exploratory study of the families of bulimics from a systems perspective

Master Thesis

1987

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Department of Psychology

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Abstract

Previous research into the families of eating disordered individuals appears to have focused almost exclusively on the families of anorexics. In view of the problems associated with the conceptualization of bulimia as a syndrome distinct from anorexia nervosa, it seems possible that research into the families of anorexics may have included the families of bulimics. Following the introductory overview of some of the literature on bulimia, highlighting the lack of diagnostic clarity in this area, previous research into the families of both anorexics and bulimics is reviewed. In view of the lack of documented research into the families of bulimics from a systems perspective, the present study aimed to explore these families' functioning. Family functioning was assessed according to the McMaster Model of Family Functioning (Epstein and Bishop, 1981): clinical interviews with 13 bulimics provided qualitative data on their families' functioning: quantitative data were elicited from the family members of 10 of these bulimics by means of the Family Assessment Device (Epstein and Bishop, 1983). Clinical assessment of the families of bulimics reveals unhealthy family functioning. The ratings of all family members as well as those of the researcher indicate that there is familial dysfunction on all dimensions of family functioning. The main emphases in these families appears to be on instrumental issues, while affective issues are inappropriately handled. Discussion centres on the findings of the present study, which show some variance with the results of previous research into the families of anorexics; and an understanding of bulimia from a systems perspective is presented.