A Blessing and a Curse: Social Interaction Between Youth Inpatients with Anorexia Nervosa

Objective: Youth with anorexia nervosa inevitably interact with peers during inpatient care, which can affect their wellbeing. To help clinicians further improve care for these youth, this study aims to qualitatively research the experiences of social interaction among peers with anorexia nervosa in inpatient care. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven adolescents and young adults with a history of inpatient care for anorexia nervosa. Their views and experiences surrounding social interaction among peers with anorexia nervosa in inpatient care were discussed comprehensively and processed through thematic analysis. Results Participants expressed corresponding views on social interaction among peers during admissions. Three main themes, including the positive and negative effects of social interaction, were defined: (1) the duality of social interaction, (2) the pressure to become the “best anorexic” and (3) multiple ways of interaction. Most participants noted a duality of positive and negative effects, which impacted their motivation for recovery. Conclusions Negative aspects of social interaction between patients with anorexia nervosa during admissions overshadow the positive aspects. This study provides insight in the benefits and risks of peer interaction and discusses the potential role of experts by experience and the importance for practitioners to acknowledge the impact of social media.