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[Eating disorders in a historical perspective]
Einar Vedul-Kjelsås1, K Gunnar Götestam
1Institutt for nevromedisin, Norges teknisk-naturvitenskapelige universitet, 7489 Trondheim. einar.vedul-kjelsas@medisin.ntnu.no
Summary
Disordered eating, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, has evolved from spiritual to bodily perfection seeking. Modern health policies focus on enhancing clinical skills to address rising concerns about eating disorders.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Medical History
Context:
- Eating disorders have ancient roots, evolving from spiritual pursuits in the Middle Ages to modern concerns with bodily perfection.
- Key figures like Hilde Bruch, Mara Selvini Palazzoli, and Russell have significantly advanced the understanding of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
- The scientific literature in Norway began addressing eating disorders primarily from the 1980s onward.
Purpose:
- To trace the historical evolution of disordered eating and its conceptualization in medical and psychiatric literature.
- To highlight the diagnostic milestones and key researchers in the field of eating disorders.
- To contextualize the emergence of eating disorders as a significant public health concern.
Summary:
- Disordered eating patterns have been documented historically, with a shift in motivations from spiritual to physical ideals.
- Anorexia nervosa was first diagnosed in 1874, while bulimia nervosa emerged in clinical literature around 1980.
- Contemporary health strategies prioritize improving clinical expertise over establishing specialized treatment centers.
Impact:
- Provides historical perspective on the changing nature and perception of eating disorders.
- Underscores the relatively recent scientific engagement with eating disorders in some regions, like Norway.
- Informs current public health policy by emphasizing skill development in managing eating disorders.