Library Dissertation Showcase

What is the state of knowledge among mental health practitioners and trainees of the needs of transgender and non-binary clients when working with body image and eating disorders?

  • Year of Publication:
  • 2024

Findings have indicated a high prevalence of eating disorders and body image issues in transgender and non-binary populations. This prevalence has been suggested to occur due to specific stressors encountered by gender minorities. Due to the many negative health consequences found to result from eating disorders and body dissatisfaction, it is imperative they are treated effectively. Therefore, it would be beneficial to understand the current knowledge of mental health practitioners and trainees in this area. This research aims to assess the knowledge of eating disorders and the specific needs of gender minorities in practitioners and ascertain any gaps in the current training they receive. The current research also aims to assess the impact professional status, specific training and experience has on attitudes to gender minorities and ‘obesity.’ 22 participants were recruited, with an equal number of qualified practitioners and trainees with varying amounts of experience. Participants completed an online questionnaire including the Fat Attitudes Assessment Toolkit and the Transgender Attitudes and Beliefs Scale, as well as a number of qualitative questions. Independent t-tests and bivariate correlations revealed experience, professional status and specific training had no significant impact on the attitudes of practitioners and trainees. Thematic analysis highlighted a gap in knowledge of trainees on eating disorders, and a need for additional training on gender minorities and their needs when being treated for eating disorders. The findings illustrate current training in this domain is inadequate and indicates further training should be developed and assessed on eating disorders and body dissatisfaction in gender minority populations, which could allow for more effective treatment in this demographic.

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