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Stigmatization of anorexia nervosa
Maria-Christina Stewart1, Pamela K Keel, R Steven Schiavo
1Department of Psychology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaiii, USA.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|March 9, 2006
Summary
Public perceptions of individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) are highly negative, attributing blame and responsibility rather than biological factors. This stigma may deter individuals with AN from seeking essential treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a serious eating disorder with significant psychological and physical consequences.
- Public perception and stigma surrounding mental illnesses, including AN, can impact treatment-seeking behaviors and patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare public perceptions of individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) against those of healthy individuals and individuals with other illnesses.
- To identify specific attitudinal dimensions contributing to the stigma of AN.
Main Methods:
- A community sample of 91 participants completed questionnaires assessing perceptions of four individuals: healthy, asthma, schizophrenia, and AN.
- Perceptions were measured using scales targeting personal characteristics, blame, controllability, and biological relevance.
Main Results:
- Individuals with AN were perceived most negatively across all evaluated characteristics.
- Participants attributed more blame and controllability to individuals with AN, viewing their condition as attention-seeking and less biologically determined.
- Conversely, biological factors were perceived as least relevant for AN compared to other conditions.
Conclusions:
- Negative public perceptions of AN are rooted in stigma related to self-attribution and personal responsibility.
- These stigmatizing attitudes may create barriers, leading to a reluctance among individuals with AN to seek necessary medical and psychological treatment.