There are three main types of eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder. Although the majority of those with eating disorders are female, males are also affected. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, eating disorders occur as a result of a combination of behavioral, emotional, psychological, interpersonal, social and biological factors. It is important to realize that eating disorders are not just about food. Those affected by an eating disorder use food as an attempt to compensate for other negative feelings and emotions. The control of food is seen as a way to cope with painful emotions and instill a sense of control in one aspect of life.
Psychological and Interpersonal Factors
Oftentimes, an eating disorder arises as a way to cope with negative feelings and emotions. Some of these feelings include low self-esteem, inadequacy, depression, anxiety, difficulty expressing emotions, perfectionism, impulsive behaviors and difficulty with anger management. Troubled family and personal relationships are also part of the underlying cause of an eating disorder. A history of mental health problems in a family is a common factor in those with eating disorders. Excessive encouragement by one or both parents to lose weight is also common. An experience of prior physical or sexual abuse can lead to problems with disordered eating as well. Studies have shown sexual abuse rates as high as 35 percent in women with bulimia, according to Mayo Clinic.
Social Factors
Cultural pressures play an enormous role in the development of eating disorders. On one hand, the media and advertisements show extremely thin models as ideal, and weight-loss programs and pills are constantly being promoted. According to Mayo Clinic, success and worth are often equated with being thin. On the other hand, an overabundance of food is produced daily in Western society, and the obesity epidemic is growing out of control. Junk food and fast food advertisements are displayed on television, in magazines and even on bus stop benches. These mixed messages cause massive confusion and contribute to the development of eating disorders.
Biological Factors
Although most biological factors are still under investigation, scientists have discovered a few common factors in the development of eating disorders. Certain chemicals that control hunger, appetite and digestion appear to be unbalanced in those with eating disorders. Serotonin, the neurotransmitter involved in hunger, anxiety and depression, is also thought to contribute to the development of eating disorders. Levels of serotonin increase during binging episodes, which in turn, leads to increased well-being. A significant genetic link has also been discovered, as disordered eating often runs in families. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, anorexia is eight times more likely to occur in those with relatives who have or had the disorder. Twins also showed a tendency to share eating disorders.
