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Causes of eating disorders.
1Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Erindale Campus, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. polivy@psych.utoronto.ca
Annual Review of Psychology
|December 26, 2001
Summary
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are prevalent eating disorders influenced by sociocultural, familial, and individual psychological factors. While multiple factors contribute to their development, none are sufficient on their own.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are the most common eating disorders.
- Understanding their etiology is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on the factors contributing to the development of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
- To explore the interplay of various risk factors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research evidence.
- Synthesis of findings related to sociocultural, familial, cognitive, and biological aspects.
- Analysis of contributing factors' necessity and sufficiency.
Main Results:
- Sociocultural influences (media, peers), family dynamics (enmeshment, criticism), negative affect, low self-esteem, and body dissatisfaction are key factors.
- Cognitive and biological aspects also play a role.
- No single factor is sufficient, but some are necessary for eating disorder development.
Conclusions:
- Eating disorders may serve as coping mechanisms for issues related to identity and personal control.
- A multifactorial approach is necessary to understand and treat these complex conditions.