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Perfectionism and its impact on eating disorders
Eating disorders are on the rise as one of the most spreading disorders amongst the American population. There are different types of eating disorders; the most common ones are anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. Most people with eating disorders are female, and tend to be adolescents or young adults. There are both physical and emotional problems that come along with eating disorders. ... Based on scientific research, it has been proven that the element of perfection is common among people with eating disorders. ... Much research has been done to explore this relationship between perfection and eating disorders.
Statistics show that 5 million Americans have an eating disorder. 1-2% of all females are affected with an eating disorder. Eating disorders are most prevalent among teenagers and young adults, ranging from about age 12 through 24. (Robinson, 2000)
The two most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. ... Bulimia nervosa is a repeated cycle of out-of-
control eating, followed by purging. ... (Robinson, 2000) Both of these disorders have a chance of being fatal. ... Aside from the physical problems associated with eating disorders, there is also an emotional factor involved. ... (Vitousek & Manke, 1994)
Perfectionism is a common trait in women with eating disorders. Perfectionism may act in concert with a low self-esteem, or body dissatisfaction. ... Excessive concern with the body and its size, and the rigid control over eating are late symptoms in the development of youngsters who have been engaged in a desperate fight to feel completely in control. ... (Bulik & Tozzi, 2003)
Statistics show that eating disorders only manifest themselves in the Western hemisphere. ... Sufferers of eating disorders have absorbed this ideology, primarily via the media, or through other resources. ...
Leslie stopped eating in tenth grade, at approximately 16 years of age. ... She would lie to her parents about her eating habits. ... She desperately wanted to get back to normal, yet when she tried to resume eating, she felt bad. ... She displays high elements of perfectionism and the desire to control within her character. ... Although the main symptoms can be cured, many people who have suffered with an eating disorder claim that they must deal with their emotional feelings for the rest of their lives. (Robinson, 2000)
It is recommended to know the different “risk-factors” that can result in an eating disorder, so that any behavior that may lead to the development of the disorder can be stopped on time. ... According to Rice and Dellwo (2002), people who exhibit the nature of perfectionism need more encouragement, and more self-esteem. ...
In conclusion, the element of perfectionism has a major impact on people with eating disorders. ... Additionally, the effects of the media and the American mentality as a whole have also influenced the behaviors of people with eating disorders.
Approximate Word count = 2267 Approximate Pages = 9.1 (250 words per page double spaced)
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