Overview Many individuals experiencing eating disorders (EDs) describe an internal ‘eating disorder voice’ (EDV) or ‘self’. Preliminary studies link the EDV with development, maintenance and ambivalence to recover from EDs. This thesis aims to develop an in-depth understanding of the EDV, its role in EDs and implications for recovery. Part 1 is a meta-ethnography of experiences of EDVs, involving 19 qualitative studies. The results indicate that experiences of the EDV can have a pervasive impact over the course of EDs. There were common experiences, such as escalating EDV power and malignancy through ED development, and idiosyncratic aspects, for example the EDV’s relations to the self and ED. In recovery, the EDV was framed as both a source of ambivalence and an opportunity for change. Part 2 is an empirical paper, presenting a thematic analysis of voice dialogues with the anorexic voice (AV). This was a joint project. Nine women with anorexia nervosa (AN) participated. ‘Chairwork’ was used to interview participants’ AVs. The analysis describes an interdependent relationship, whereby the person ‘needs’ the AV as it promises to solve their problems, a valued but fraught relationship develops, and the AV ‘needs’ to preserve its influence over the person for its own survival. Where relevant, exploring individuals’ EDV experiences could highlight obstacles to recovery and tailor treatments, but further research is needed to establish effective ways of working with EDVs. Part 3 provides a critical appraisal, focused on experiences of the ethical review process and the dynamic interplay between research and researcher
