“I am not alone”. A qualitative feasibility study of eating disorders prevention groups for young females with type 1 diabetes

Abstract

ObjectiveThe overall aim of the current study was to qualitatively explore the feasibility of eating disorder prevention groups for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D).MethodA generic qualitative focus group design was applied. 17 participants accepted the invitation to attend focus group interviews after completing the intervention. Five focus groups were conducted in total.ResultsThe qualitative analysis generated one overarching theme, named the benefit of meeting peers with a lived experience of T1D and body image concerns, and four themes: the need for an integrated focus on diabetes, personal relevance, providing sufficient balance between structure and flexibility and enabling a different perspective.ConclusionResults show overall positive feedback regarding the content and structure of the intervention, and underline the importance of targeting preventive efforts to specific risk groups.