Much research has been completed on this disorder, and results indicate a strong familial undercurrent. Many individuals with Anorexia come from over controlling families where nurturance is lacking. Studies suggest that sexual abuse survivors are more prone to the disorder, as are fraternal twins and first degree relatives of those who have anorexia, the latter suggesting a biological component as well. . (DSM-IV 1999 – 2003).
Most often diagnosed in females (up to 90%), Anorexia is characterized by failure to maintain body weight of at least 85% of what is expected, fear of losing control over your weight or of becoming ‘fat.’ There is typically a distorted body image, where the individual sees themselves as overweight despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. (DSM-IV 1999 – 2003). If caught in time, Anorexia is very treatable, but can easily lead to severe physical problems and death if it is allowed to continue. In many cases, an individual with anorexia is very reluctant to get treatment as this would mean giving up control. Inpatient or other hospitalization is often needed when health is at risk. . (DSM-IV 1999 – 2003).
In the past 30 years eating disorders or (EDs) have become widespread in western industrialised societies; this may be related to the over-abundance of food but it’s more likely to be influenced by societal norms that link human attractiveness to being thin or waif-like. The popular and scientific assumption is that the preoccupation with thinness and dieting rampant in western societies is a direct cause of eating disorders. (Richard Gross 2010).
‘According to Fedoroff and McFarlane (1998) it is well established that eating disorders are multidetermined and that culture is only one of many factors that contribute to the development of eating disorders. Furthermore, cultural factors can only be understood as they interact with the psychology and biology of the vulnerable individual; a culture cannot cause a disorder.’ (Richard Gross 2010). According to the dimensional viewpoint, the full blown ED is the end point along a continuum that begins with normal dieting, advances to excessive concern about weight and the emergence of some clinical symptoms, and finally a severe, pathological illness. (Richard Gross 2010).
Reference List:
DSM-IV 1999 – 2003 http://allpsych.com/disorders accessed at 01:01 hrs on the 12th March 2011 Richard Gross 2010 Psychology: The Science of Mind and Behaviour Sixth Edition