Explanations of anorexia - learning Flashcards
How do cultural beliefs reduce rates of AN in non-western cultures?
Views on body shape are different, fuller figures are associated with wealth and fertility and so are praised. This is most likely developed from parents who act as role models.
What are the western cultural ideals for body shape?
Girls - thin, petite, hourglass
Boys - Tall, broad and muscular
How do the social norms of different cultures explain the differing rates of AN found in these groups?
AN is less common because being bigger is normalised and so they don’t see a need to lose weight excessively.
How could the media influence social norms in culture in affecting AN?
Through advertisements and social media. They may show people with specific body types, making someone feel abnormal for having these body types.
How has AN changed over time for gender and culture?
Changed for women as it was tall and skinny and now hourglass due to the increase in plastic surgery which means that AN is more common as they try to fluctuate with society.
How could classical conditioning explain anorexia?
Being thin means control. Constant exercise and being thing enhances this control which means that exercise means control over being thing. Also, gaining weight may lead to fear, which is cause by food leading to a fear of food.
How can operant conditioning explain the maintenance of AN?
Operant conditioning can take effect as the admiration from others further reinforces their dieting behaviours. Rewards may come in the form of attention from parents by not eating and punishment may also explain why the individual may find it difficult to recover from AN.
