Pro Ana And Pro Mia Websites

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses whether Pro Ana and Pro Mia websites should be regulated or, banned, or left alone. The paper concludes that, while appearing to perpetuate addictive behavior, the websites actually have a primary function that might be used in treating these disorders, as the very existence of these websites is bringing adolescent girls and their parents to the realization of an existing problem in order that they might seek help. Therefore, it may be that these websites serve a very important purpose which is a coming out of the darkness of hiding the addictive behavior into the light of admitting that a problem exists.

Outline:
Objective
Introduction
Understanding Pro-Ana & Pro-Mia Websites
Dangerous Disorders - Addictive Disorders
Summary

From the Paper:

"Thus these sites provide a glimpse into the meaning making practices of non-clinical populations." Indeed what these sites actually provide is a type of framework that might be utilized in the development of treatment options across the population. Pascoe states that already participants in this "online subculture...often rework characterizations of anorexia as a disease by engaging in complex discussions of anorexia as a lifestyle choice in addition to or instead of a medical and psychological disorder. In crafting a complex community with unique symbols, rituals and identities these women provide a fuller picture of eating disorders and people who live with them, voluntarily or not" .

Sample of Sources Used:

• Iannelli, Vincent (2003) Eating Disorders Awareness. Online available at: http://pediatrics.about.com/cs/conditions/a/eatingdisorders.htm
• Chisholm, Lee and Fenaughty, John (nd) Pro-Ana (Pro-Anorexia), Pro-Mia (Pro-Bulimia) and the Internet. Online available at: http://www.netsafe.org.nz/Doc_Library/download/nzac_proana_promia_feb07.pdf
• Pascoe, C.J.. 2008. "You're Just Another Fatty:" Creating a Pro-Ana Subculture Online. Digital Youth Research http://digitalyouth.ischool.berkeley.edu/node/104. January 22, 2008. Online available at: http://digitalyouth.ischool.berkeley.edu/node/104
• Head, Jacqueline (2007) Seeking 'Thinspiration' BBC News 8 Aug 2007. Online available at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/6935768.stm

More papers on Pro Ana And Pro Mia Websites:

• Analytical Essay # 114296 : "Economic Perspectives of Pro-Choice and Pro-Life"
• Analytical Essay # 14571 : "Pro-Life and Pro-Choice Groups"
• Analytical Essay # 69384 : "Pro's and Con's of Affirmative Action"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: