Eating disorder risk factors
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Risk Factors
Many people believe that eating disorders occur only among young white females, but this is not the case. While eating disorders do mainly affect women between the ages of 12 and 35, other groups are also at risk of developing eating disorders. Eating disorders affect all ethnic and racial groups and while the specific nature of the problem and the risk factors may vary, no population is exempt.[1] Younger and younger children seem to be at risk of developing eating disorders. While most children who develop eating disorders are between 11 and 13, studies have shown that 80% of 3rd through 6th graders are dissatisfied with their bodies or their weight and by age 9 somewhere between 30 and 40% of girls have already been on a diet. Between ages 10 and 16, the statistic jumps to 80%. Many eating disorder experts attribute this behavior to the effects of cultural expectations. Stress is also considered to be a factor in the development of eating disorders. According to Abigail Natenshon, a psychotherapist specializing in eating disorders, children as young as 5 show signs of stress related eating disorders. This includes compulsively exercising and running to burn off calories. Natanshon notes that as children reach puberty younger and younger, they are less equipped to understand the changes in their bodies. They understand the message of the media to be "thin" and try to fit in without comprehending the effects on their bodies.[2] While eating disorders affect younger and younger children, not only girls but also boys suffer from eating disorders. Boys who participate in sports where weight is an issue and often boys who experience issues regarding sexual identity are at risk of developing eating disorders.[3]
References
- ↑ http://womenshealth.gov/bodyimage/kids/bodywise/bp/AtRisk.pdf At Risk: All Ethnic and Cultural Groups
- ↑ http://www.empoweredparents.com/mini/t6.htm Fat Fears Create Stress in Young Children; Stress Levels Rise in Tweenies
- ↑ Jablow, Martha > A Parent's Guide to Eating Disorders and Obesity New York: Dell Publishing, 1992.