Art therapy and eating disorders: A mixed methods feasibility study

Abstract

The aim of this mixed methods feasibility study was to investigate the feasibility of conducting a large-scale randomised controlled trial. Six feasibility domains proposed by Bowen et al. were investigated: demand, implementation, practicality, limited efficacy, adaptation, and acceptability. Nine adults with anorexia nervosa took part in 1.5-h group art therapy twice a week across an 8-week Day Patient Program at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia. Interviews were conducted at weeks 4 and 8, and data were analysed using thematic analysis. Outcome measures included the World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument – Short Version and the Experience of Shame Scale (measured at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 6 and 8). The Session Rating Scale was administered after each session. A convergent, parallel mixed analysis design was used to integrate methods. Results showed that conducting a large-scale randomised controlled trial would only be feasible if key issues could be addressed, such as high attrition rates. However, art therapy was shown to be acceptable, practical to run, and adaptable. Qualitative findings revealed that art therapy facilitated self-expression, flexibility, accomplishment and connectedness in participants. No adverse events were recorded.