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Investigating the Role of Parental Bonding and Eating Disorder-Related Core Beliefs in ARFID

Why is this research happening?

Research and treatment approaches for ARFID have predominantly focused on sensory and behavioural aspects, whereas relational and cognitive aspects of the disorder have been understudied. 

The aim of this research is to:

  1. Investigate the role of parental bonding experiences in childhood in adults with ARFID
  2. Provide further evidence for the role of eating disorder related core beliefs in ARFID
  3. Establish the relationship between parental bonding, eating disorder related core beliefs, and eating disorder symptoms. 

This research also aims to compare the role these aspects have in Anorexia Nervosa to understand more about how these eating disorders might differ. 

It is hoped that this can further the understanding of possible risk factors and inform the development of treatment approaches for ARFID. 

Who is doing the research? 

This research is being conducted by Franziska Wirth, a Trainee Clinical Psychologist at the University of Oxford. 

This research is supervised by Dr Myra Cooper as part of the lead researcher’s doctoral thesis. 

Email: Franziska.wirth@gtc.ox.ac.uk

Who can take part? 

To take part in the study, you must meet the following inclusion criteria:

This study is looking for participants from any of the below groups:

How can I take part and what does this involve? 

Participation will involve completing seven short questionnaires focusing on your demographic information, eating disorder symptoms, core beliefs, parental/caregiver bonding, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. This will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. 

After completing the questionnaires, you will be taken to a debrief screen which will provide information on how to reach out for support if required. 

You will also have the option to leave your email address should you wish to be contacted about the study results in the future. 

The survey is voluntary and anonymous. 

To find our more and participate click this link: https://oxfordxpsy.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cBHXl7lvxAhJDpk

You can also email the lead researcher at Franziska.wirth@gtc.ox.ac.uk for further information.