Legal Professionals’ Perspective on Insanity Defense Cases in Addis Ababa.
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Date
2026
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Addis Ababa Uinverstiy
Abstract
Background: Eating problems are a growing global concern. Adolescents and young
people, particularly those with emotional and behavioral difficulties, represent one of the
most affected groups. However, in the Ethiopian context, there is a dearth of evidence
regarding the subjective experiences of eating behaviors among adolescents.
Understanding these experiences, especially within clinical populations, is crucial for
identifying themes that are closely related to their mental health.
Objectives:
This study aimed to understand the eating behaviors of adolescents with common
mental health disorders at follow up in two outpatient clinics in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods:
An institution-based semi structured interview was conducted for a descriptive
phenomenological qualitative design study using in depth semi structured interviews
among 12 adolescents aged 10-19. Data were collected over the period of December 1,
2025 - March 1, 2026 and analyzed using a thematic approach to identify recurrent,
core themes related to eating behaviors of adolescents with common mental health
disorders.
Results: Six primary themes were identified in this study. Knowledge and perception of
healthy eating, eating patterns, influences of eating patterns, body image and
identification, impact of eating habits and actions to improve eating habits. Although
participants exhibited adequate awareness of health eating, their dietary practices were
described as irregular and under/overeating. These practices appeared to be related to
their peer relationships, social expectations and emotions. Eating behaviors were also
linked to body image and maintaining social ideals.
Conclusions: Adolescent eating behaviors in this setting are more intertwined with
emotion regulation and social acceptance than solely by nutritional knowledge.
Recommendations: Clinical interventions should move beyond general education
toward individualized case conceptualizations that address emotional eating and the
somatic impacts of mental distress.
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Keywords
Eating Habits, Adolescents, Common Mental Disorders