What Causes Anorexia?

Anorexia is a complicated disorder that touches the lives of whole families. Anorexia nervosa is described as a disorder marked by obsession and a distorted body image. A person affected by anorexia has a great fear of gaining weight, and will pursue weight loss goals in an often-obsessive manner. They may avoid eating or eat very sparingly, and take part in an obsessive weight-loss exercise regime. Because of this focus on not eating and losing weight, anorexia patients tend to be very thin. Although anorexia is still not fully understood by researchers, doctors have pared down several factors that may be responsible for triggering anorexia in some patients. In general, researchers have found that anorexia goes beyond simply having an unhealthy relationship with food. It appears that anorexia has much to do with control: controlling what you put in your body, and how your outward appearance. Here are other factors that may influence the development of anorexia.

Biology: Many researchers have noted a biological factor to anorexia. Although it is not deemed an overwhelming factor, genetics, hormones, and other biological factors may contribute to the development of anorexia in some individuals.

Major life changes and other stressful events: Stressful events and major life changes can prompt the onset of anorexia in some individuals. Losing a beloved friend or family member, divorce, moving, starting a new school, or the end of a relationship are all stressful life changes that can make a person feel like they are losing control of their life. This can cause some people to seek control over their life and impel them to make changes in their diet and appearance. This may spiral into a larger problem that can develop into anorexia.

Popular Culture: Cultural ideals and media have a strong influence on how we view and feel about our bodies. In our culture, thinness is revered and obesity is seen as an undesirable state that is usually the result of weakness and loss of discipline. Many women may define their own sense of beauty by comparing themselves to ultra-thin super models and other celebrities. They may not be able to accept themselves until they feel they have achieved the ideal of perfection. These types of goals are not only unrealistic and unhealthy, but can result in dire health predilections.

Low self-esteem/Emotional health: Anorexia is often triggered by feelings of low self-worth and esteem. They may resent their appearance or feel bad about their appearance. Often, individuals afflicted with anorexia are perfectionists that strive to achieve the "perfect" weight." Often, this goal is unrealistic and unhealthy. Even if they lose weight, anorexia patients are still plagued by feelings of worthlessness or failure.

Family history: Many researchers have noted that some people who develop anorexia also have family members who suffer or have suffered from the condition. There may be a family predilection toward outward perfection. Also, parents who criticize their children's physical appearance may be unwittingly triggering feelings of low self-esteem that can develop into anorexia or another eating disorder.