Eating disorders and criticism of cultural ideals

Journal/Book: European Eating Disorders Rev. 1999; 7: Baffins Lane Chichester, W Sussex PO19 1UD, England. John Wiley & Sons Ltd. 204-212.

Abstract: A possible factor in the development of eating disorders is the ability of individuals to adopt a critical stance in relation to cultural ideals concerning body weight and shape. This study assessed this ability in a group of patients drawn from eating disorder treatment programmes and in two control groups, female and male, drawn from the general community. The major source of data was a semi-structured interview. Categorization of responses and chi-squared comparison revealed that males were generally less critical than females of cultural ideals concerning weight and shape. There was some evidence that females with eating disorders are also less likely than normal females to be critical of these ideals. For the clinical group, a significant relationship was found between subjects' 'critical ability' and the duration of their eating disorder. These findings have possible implications for programmes for treatment and prevention of eating disorders.

Note: Article Murray S, Suites 1 & 2 Mews, 11-13 Bundaroo St, POB 1172, Bowral, NSW 2576, AUSTRALIA

Keyword(s): ANOREXIA-NERVOSA; MASS-MEDIA; WOMEN; EXPECTATIONS; ATTITUDES; THINNESS

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