Hetsätningsstörning i självhjälpslitteraturens värld : en kvalitativ innehållsanalys

Sammanfattning: The aim of this study was to find which major themes could be found in self-help books geared towards individuals with binge eating issues. Furthermore, the goal was to understand what type of meaning these themes communicated. To do this a strategic sampling was first used to find such books to study. This led to the choice of using books in English, written by professionals, that were also available in audio-format. The study was then conducted using an inductive approach to data to which a qualitative content analysis later was applied. Through this methodology three self-help audiobooks were analyzed mainly through the lens of aspects of the psychodynamic theory. However, the concept of the reflexive self and coping mechanisms were used as well. By analyzing the chosen self-help literature using this theoretical framework major themes of the books were understood as signaling beliefs of the human being as a victim of their urges. These urges are separate from the individual and the person has the capability of taking control and changing their situation by becoming more responsible and mindful of their own behaviors and choices.