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How to promote therapy-seeking for men with binge-spectrum eating disorders: a qualitative study
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

How to promote therapy-seeking for men with binge-spectrum eating disorders: a qualitative study

Ross M Sonnenblick, Edward Alexander Williams, Stephanie M Manasse and Jason M Lavender
Journal of eating disorders, v 14(1), 91
13 Mar 2026
PMID: 41827048
url
https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-026-01571-4View
Published, Version of Record (VoR) Open CC BY-NC-ND V4.0

Abstract

Men Masculinity Binge eating Treatment Stigma Qualitative
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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