The Battle Within: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis of the Experience of the Eating Disorder Voice.

Background/objectives: Individuals with eating disorders frequently describe encountering a highly critical internal voice that fixates on their eating habits, body shape, and weight. While existing literature acknowledges the significant impact of this eating disorder voice on affected individuals and its influence on treatment trajectories, research in this area remains limited. This study aimed to comprehensively examine and synthesize qualitative data concerning the experience of the eating disorder voice, with the goal of deepening our understanding of its fundamental characteristics and informing more effective approaches to assessment, treatment, and support in clinical settings.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted across six databases for studies presenting qualitative findings relevant to the eating disorder voice. Fifteen studies were included, and their findings were reviewed and synthesized.

Results: Results revealed that the eating disorder voice is often perceived by individuals as both protective and comforting, yet also controlling and intrusive, often seen as a force more powerful than themselves. Participants described a constant struggle to manage this internal criticism by differentiating themselves from the voice, with the fear of separation from the voice posing a significant challenge.

Conclusions: This study underscores the complex nature of the EDV and its profound impact on individuals with eating disorders.