Experiences of Guilt as a Mother in the Context of Eating Difficulties

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore motherhood in the context of eating difficulties. The research question was: What are mothers' daily life experiences when suffering from ED? An explorative design was used. In-depth interviews (n = 8) focused on experiences of motherhood and eating difficulties. Data were interpreted by hermeneutic analysis. The main theme, “experiencing guilt as a mother in the context of eating difficulties,” comprised two themes: (1) having a guilty conscience in relation to being a good enough mother and (2) being preoccupied about not involving the children in the eating difficulties. The study illuminates the importance of identifying mothers with eating difficulties and offering them treatment and support.