Eating Disorders

Question 1

What are the causes of eating disorders?

Answer 1

A combination of biological, psychological and social factors
e.g. cultural influences

Question 2

What are the psychological factors that can contribute to eating disorders? (4)

Answer 2

1. distress, depression, anger, stress, loneliness
2. fear of gaining weight
3. feelings of helplessness, inadequacy, lack of control in life
4. low self esteem

Question 3

What are other co-morbidities? (3)

Answer 3

1. Anxiety disorders
2. Depression
3. Substance Abuse

Question 4

What are the interpersonal factors that can contribute to eating disorders? (6)

Answer 4

1. troubled personal relationships
2. difficulty expressing emotions or feelings
3. history of being teased/ ridiculed based on size/weight
4. history of physical or sexual abuse
5. life transitions (especially if the person has struggled with an eating disorder in the past)
6. extracurricular activities (through coaches/ parents/ professionals encouraging and rewarding weight loss)