An existential phenomenology of eating disorders in older people : an ontological reflection and analysis

[From the introduction:]This thesis is an interdisciplinary project of philosophy, specifically the use of an existential phenomenological method, applied to a health and social care topic under the broader research theme of ‘wellbeing’. It will take the form of an ontological reflection and analysis of eating disorders in older people, based on a phenomenologically oriented methodology, supported by a foundation of primary philosophical texts and more ‘traditional’ philosophical scholarship.Outlining the Research QuestionsCentral to this endeavour are three research questions about the topic which will structure the project:1. What do we understand about eating disorders as phenomena?2. Is the dominant psychiatric approach to eating disorders problematic, and if so, how?3. Can a phenomenological method be useful when trying to understand the phenomenon of eating disorders?These questions will help guide and catalyse my philosophical evaluation and create deeper understanding of eating disorders, the unique experiences of older people with eating disorders, the phenomenological method, and embodiment. Bringing together my background in academic philosophy with my work experience in health and social care, I have sought to create an interwoven and mutually beneficial ‘symbiosis’ of disciplines