The onset of anorexia nervosa

In a retrospective study of case notes a number of experiential and psychological factors were discerned of possible importance to the psychogenesis of anorexia nervosa. These factors included issues of dependence and independence, sexual challenge, concern about obesity, and a variety of other, less specific stresses. Attempts to confirm the findings by means of a prospective study were impeded by difficulties in defining the onset of the illness. While in some patients the occurrence of anorexic type behaviour led immediately to weight loss, in others there was a significant delay between the onset of behavioural change and consequent emaciation.