Hall, Richard; (2021) Basic Needs: Food Insecurity & Mental Health. Doctoral thesis (D.Clin.Psy), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

This thesis investigates the association between Food Insecurity and mental health. Part one is a systematic review of research into Food Insecurity and mental health amongst adults in the UK. Due to the heterogenous nature of research methodologies, a scoping review was used to provide an overview of the evidence. The review describes research into how stigma, shame, uncertainty, stress and ‘disordered’ eating behaviours are dominant features of mental health difficulties connected to FI. Part two is an original mixed methods study investigating the proposed association between Food Insecurity and Eating Disorder symptoms as measured by the Eating Disorder Diagnostic Scale (EDDS), an adapted version of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire Dietary Restraint (DR) subscale and the Food Insecurity Experience Scale Questionnaire. Data was collected via an online survey from a sample of 355 UK adults during the Covid-19 pandemic. Results are consistent with previous research conducted in the USA and indicate for the first time how Food Insecurity is a likely risk factor for increased risk of ED symptoms amongst the general population in the UK. Part three is a critical appraisal providing a reflection on the context in which the research came about. Further discussion focuses on the possible significance of the findings and their limitations. Indications for future studies and clinical recommendations are apprised alongside a consideration of the relevance of the findings to the role of Clinical Psychology in addressing social inequalities such as Food Insecurity.

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