A pilot study investigating the acceptability and feasibility of a group intervention for parents of autistic young people with anorexia nervosa within a specialist eating disorders service.

Abstract

Background: Many children and young people presenting with anorexia nervosa will also be autistic. While autistic children and young people may have similar physical health outcomes compared to their neurotypical peers, they are more likely to experience poorer recovery, requiring more intensive treatments. Similarly, parents report needing additional support from mental health services. Parents may benefit from a group intervention as an adjunct to family therapy to help them effectively care for their children and to reduce the psychological impact this may have on them. This study aimed to provide an overview of the group intervention and evaluate its feasibility and acceptability.

Methods: Attendance rates were used to evaluate the feasibility of the group. Parents were invited to evaluate the acceptability of the group with brief quantitative measures each session. Individual qualitative interviews were conducted with six parents to evaluate both feasibility and acceptability. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results: 17 parents (mothers n = 8, fathers n = 8, stepmother n = 1) from eight families took part in two pilot groups (group 1 n = 8, group 2 n = 9). Total attendance rate was 66.5%, with one parent from each family attending 85.7% of sessions. On average, sessions were rated highly relevant, useful and improved parents' understanding of their child. From qualitative interviews conducted with six parents (group 1 n = 4, group 2 n = 2), two main themes were generated: (1) A space for connection and support, (2) From knowledge to practice. Parents spoke of the way the group helped them feel less isolated, gain skills and begin to practice implementing new learning at home. Not all aspects of the group were helpful, and recommendations were made regarding the resources, structure and intensity of the intervention.

Discussion: Findings suggest that the intervention is feasible and acceptable. This pilot study replicates previous findings about benefits of additional support for carers.