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Journal article
How to promote therapy-seeking for men with binge-spectrum eating disorders: a qualitative study
Journal of eating disorders
13 Mar 2026
PMID: 41827048
Featured in Collection : Drexel's Newest Publications
Abstract
Objective
Most men with binge-spectrum eating disorders (BSEDs) never receive psychological treatment for their conditions, and research on BSEDs typically includes disproportionately low numbers of men. Qualitative information is needed to shape the development of messaging strategies to engage this population in both treatment and research.
Method
Fifteen men (53% White, 80% heterosexual, age range 26–69) who had never gone to therapy for their BSEDs provided semi-structured qualitative feedback about strategies to engage men like them in psychological treatment for and research about BSEDs.
Findings
Reflexive thematic analysis identified four key themes: (1) Serious messages convey the seriousness of BSEDs (2). The ideal message would be simple and relatable and persuade men that seeking therapy makes them more manly, not less (3). Men’s intersectional identities shape their reasons for not pursuing therapy (4). Men expressed spontaneous excitement about a messaging campaign to raise awareness of disordered eating in men.
Discussion
These findings demonstrate that no single messaging strategy will appeal to all men. Nonetheless, all men expressed enthusiasm for targeted campaigns that promote the entry of more men into psychological treatment for their BSEDs. Researchers and clinicians could use these findings to increase men’s uptake of BSED treatment.
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Details
- Title
- How to promote therapy-seeking for men with binge-spectrum eating disorders: a qualitative study
- Creators
- Ross M Sonnenblick - Drexel University, Center for Weight, Eating and Lifestyle Science (WELL) [Historical]Edward Alexander Williams - Drexel UniversityStephanie M Manasse - Nemours Children's Clinic (United States, Wilmington)Jason M Lavender - Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
- Publication Details
- Journal of eating disorders
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Psychological and Brain Sciences (Psychology); Center for Weight, Eating and Lifestyle Science (WELL) [Historical]
- Other Identifier
- 991022170458004721