An exploration of the relationship between insulin misuse and eating disorder psychopathology in adults with type 1 diabetes

Matthews, Victoria (2019) An exploration of the relationship between insulin misuse and eating disorder psychopathology in adults with type 1 diabetes. Doctoral thesis, University of East Anglia.

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Abstract

Insulin misuse in type 1 diabetes is frequently reported in the literature and is associated with poor health outcomes. The reasons for this behaviour have been under-researched; however, weight control and disordered eating are frequent themes. Little research has explored this in type 1 diabetes specifically, and most have focused on the experiences of females and adolescents. The research aims of this project are: 1. To critically review, assess, and evaluate whether insulin misuse for the purposes of weight loss or control is reported by males with type 1 diabetes and to what degree; 2. To explore the relationships between insulin misuse and gender, eating disorder psychopathology, body shape satisfaction and diabetes related distress.

A systematic review was carried out to investigate insulin misuse for weight purposes amongst males with type 1 diabetes, and the prevalence of this. The evidence suggested that males report misusing insulin for weight purposes when assessed using self-report measures, but do not report this during clinical interviews. Prevalence rates could not be established from the studies included in the review due to the heterogeneity of the measures used.

An empirical study was carried out using a cross-sectional self-report design, and 219 completed datasets were included in the analysis (78% female). Insulin misuse was common, with women significantly more likely to misuse insulin than men. Those who had a current or historical diagnosis of an eating disorder were more likely to misuse insulin for weight loss or control than those with no history of an eating disorder. People who reported insulin misuse had significantly higher levels of disordered eating behaviours, more negative feelings about body shape and greater degrees of diabetes-related distress. Diabetes-related distress was the only predictor of insulin misuse.

Theoretical and clinical implications are identified and recommendations for further research are discussed.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Norwich Medical School
Depositing User:	Users 11011 not found.
Date Deposited:	18 Oct 2019 13:16
Last Modified:	18 Oct 2019 13:16
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/72707
DOI:

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