ANOREXIA NERVOSA CAUSES

• Psychological/emotional factors. Anorexia Nervosa has been variously described as 'the slimmer's disease', 'a relentless pursuit of thinness' and 'a morbid fear of fatness'. However, for many sufferers anorexia is not just about dieting or losing weight, rather it is an outward sign of deep psychological and emotional turmoil. Their behaviour may be an unconscious attempt to avoid or control painful feelings, a way of asserting control over life or a reaction to stress.
• Social pressure. Stick thin magazine fashion models as well as skinny teen pop idols all help reinforce the idea that to be successful or loved you have to be thin.
• Parental attitudes. Parents have an important role to play in conveying messages about healthy food and healthy eating behaviour. A recent study showed that mothers play a central role in transmitting cultural values regarding weight, shape and appearance to daughters. As early as the preschool period, a mother's own dieting and eating behaviour may begin to influence children's eating patterns. Women should be aware that attempts to control their own weight may influence their daughters emerging ideas, concepts and beliefs about dieting.