The purpose of this research was to explore the intersections between disordered eating, substance abuse, and self-injury among young women. In this thesis, I attempted to illuminate convergences and divergences between the experiences of young women who have struggled with these three problems, in the interest of shedding light on contributing factors, as well as possible barriers, to recovery and wellness. Throughout the research process, the focus was on the women's thoughts, feelings, and meaning-making. Inquiry into past trauma and abuse was deliberately omitted in order to focus on the behaviours as adaptations rather than symptoms of pathology. Nine women ages 21 to 27 were interviewed all were university students. Experience of the three behaviours varied, as did experience of therapeutic intervention. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to yield eight themes and seven sub-themes. The most pervasive of these was the theme of ambivalence, which functions on multiple levels and appears to constitute a significant barrier to help-seeking and recovery. Other themes included identity body image stigma learning the behaviours function and strategy of behaviours choice and recovery.
This thesis documents a qualitative, community-based project called Envisioning Change that took place in Prince George, British Columbia in 2011-2012. The project engaged five women in the creative process of photography to explore their experiences of substance use and mental health. Based on the innovative method of Photovoice, women took photographs representing their experiences. Their photographs were subsequently used to guide in-depth interviews. Interviews were analyzed revealing five themes that highlight the importance of addressing women holistically within their particular contexts. One of the primary findings was of women's strength and resilience in coping with and recovering from mental health and substance use issues. The photographs were exhibited in Prince George and the project was presented at multiple conferences. Photographs are a unique and impactful approach for sharing research results to local, national, and international audiences. Feedback from participants indicated that the project was an empowering and transformative experience. --Leaf ii.
