Eating Disorders and Culture

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses that both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are eating disorders that have virtually been unknown until the 20th century. The writer points out that today they are growing in proportion. The writer notes that many see the roots of these diseases in the modern society and culture, particularly those of the Western industrialized countries. This essay gives an overview of current opinions and research results on the link between culture and eating disorders.

From the Paper:

"The American Psychiatric Association recognizes two main specific eating disorder diagnoses: Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa. The individuals suffering from Anorexia Nervosa, of which are more than 90% females, refuse to keep normal minimum body weight for their age and height. They usually accomplish this by reducing the food intake by first avoiding the high caloric products but it frequently goes on to limitation to a few selected foods. The driving force for these actions is strong fear of becoming fat, a fear that does not go away or even diminish as weight loss becomes apparent."

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