| The primary investigator explored the lived experience of four women who were experiencing bulimic symptoms while engaging in a romantic relationship. Through in-depth, phenomenological interviews, the participants shared their personal stories regarding how their eating disorder symptoms influenced their romantic relationships. Findings showed that these women experienced poor body image that impacted their ability to be intimate with their partners, particularly with regards to physical expressions of intimacy. The women also exhibited a need for control, which was underpinning the eating disorder behaviors and manifesting in their relationships. Strengths and protective factors within the romantic relationship were identified across participants. This highlights the need for future research to look beyond relational deficits and focus more attention on understanding relational strengths in order to inform treatment. |
