CONTENTS
Introduction
CHAPTER
9
1
An Overview of Eating Disorders
1. Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments 14 of Eating Disorders Melissa Spearing Eating disorders are defined as disturbances in eating behavior that include reduction in food intake or overeating, combined with emotional concern about body image and weight. 2. Eating Disorders Are a Serious Matter Andrea Faiad Anorexia nervosa is the leading cause of death among girls ages fifteen to twenty-four. Recovery involves recognizing and working through the underlying issues. 3. Treatments for Eating Disorders Must Address Physical and Psychological Issues HealthyPlace.com Treatment for eating disorders requires a comprehensive treatment plan that involves medical experts, psychotherapy, and pharmaceuticals. 4. More Men Are Diagnosed with Eating Disorders Ovetta Wiggins More men and boys are developing distorted body images that lead to dangerous eating habits. Many men are too embarrassed to seek help.
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5. Binge Eating Is Now the Most Common 44 Eating Disorder Nicholas Bakalar A new study finds that binge eating, although not classified as a psychiatric disorder, has become more common than anorexia nervosa and bulimia.
CHAPTER
2
The Controversial Side of Eating Disorders
1. Mental Illness Contributes to Eating 51 Disorders Elena Rozwadowski A variety of mental illnesses cause or accompany eating disorders, such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression. Treatment should begin with correcting the eating disorder so that the underlying mental illness can be addressed. 2. Genes Contribute to Eating Disorders 58 Arline Kaplan Molecular studies and studies involving twins have shown that genes play a complex role in the cause of eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. 3. Families Cause Eating Disorders Mark Dombeck Family dynamics can influence the development of eating disorders.
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4. Families Do Not Cause Eating Disorders 71 Kelli McElhinny Researchers have concluded that there is no scientific evidence that families cause eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. Science is finding a genetic component that may be the root of the disease.
5. The Fashion Industry Is Responsible for 76 Policing Models’ Eating Disorders Elizabeth Wellington A columnist writes that as long as the fashion industry continues to promote body images that are impossible to attain and to employ rail-thin models, it must take responsibility for its models’ eating disorders. 6. The Fashion Industry Takes Steps to 82 Discourage Models’ Eating Disorders Council of Fashion Designers of America The fashion industry cannot assume responsibility for an issue as complex as eating disorders in models. However, the Council of Fashion Designers of America is beginning a campaign to promote the well-being of models. 7. The Internet Promotes Eating Disorders 87 Jill Meredith Collins Pro-anorexia Web sites promote eating disorders by providing a space where youth can learn about and adopt disordered eating behaviors. 8. The Internet Provides Treatment for 96 Eating Disorders Sandra G. Boodman The Internet can provide low-cost programs that are effective at treating and preventing eating disorders.
CHAPTER
3
The Personal Side of Eating Disorders
1. A Woman Struggles with Anorexia Cathleen Kronemer A microbiologist and exercise instructor explains living with anorexia for thirty years and how she learned to improve herself through strength training.
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2. A Woman Overcomes Bulimia Diane Guernsey A woman finally comes to terms with her eating disorder and manages to move forward. 3. A Young Girl Seeks Treatment for Anorexia Sandy Fertman Ryan A ninth-grader checks into the Renfrew Center inpatient facility for eating disorders, where she learns to take control of her eating habits.
Glossary Chronology Organizations to Contact For Further Reading Index
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