Experiences of disordered eating and exercise of neurodivergent, gender diverse youth: a qualitative study

Objective The aim of this study was to explore neurodivergent gender diverse youths’ experiences of disordered eating, including the ways in which disordered eating manifests in this population, experiences of eating disorder treatment, and the relationship between disordered eating behaviors and body image.Methods In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven neurodivergent, gender diverse youth and young adults aged 16–26 regarding their experiences with disordered eating and exercise. Participants were recruited from relevant community organizations, social media, and snowball sampling. Data analysis was performed using a basic interpretive qualitative design, inductively identifying patterns and themes and presenting them descriptively.Results Data were organized into three overarching categories: 1) factors affecting disordered eating behaviors development (i.e. family influences, sociocultural influences, neurodivergent differences, and social isolation); 2) factors affecting disordered eating behaviors maintenance (i.e. habits, social feedback); and 3) recovery experiences (i.e. recognition, addressing gender dysphoria and mental health, neuro-affirming treatments and solutions, and social and peer support).Discussion Our findings may indicate that gender-affirming care is an important component of treatment for disordered eating in neurodivergent, gender diverse youth; however, effective treatment also requires neuro-affirming approaches that attend to cognitive and sensory differences in this population. We also identified social isolation as an important factor influencing the development, maintenance, and severity of disordered eating, which supports minority stress theory and underscores the need for accessible community and peer support groups for neurodivergent, gender diverse youth struggling with disordered eating.