Eating Disorders in the Adolescent Population:

Abstract

Adolescents become vulnerable to developing eating disorders as they mature. Very little is known about the prevalence, etiology, assessment, treatment, and outcome of eating disorders among adolescents. In general, research on eating disorders continues to be plagued with design flaws. Future studies need to be prospective research based on larger, more diverse samples of adolescents that represent all developmental stages of adolescence. Consistent diagnostic criteria and definitions of treatment interventions and outcomes also need to be employed. In addition, research should address the identification of protective and risk factors that predict who will actually develop an eating disorder.

Prevalence and Beliefs Regarding Eating Disorders among General Population of Pakistan

“…Globally approximately 70 million people suffer from an eating disorder. Severe forms of eating disorders not only lead to physical, psychological and social distress but also result in depression Studies have shown that individuals are prone towards developing eating disorders regardless of their age, gender or ethnicity 2 .…”

Starving for Support: How Women With Anorexia Receive ‘Thinspiration’ on the Internet

“…Comorbid mental disorders that may provide warning signs for individuals at risk for the development of an eating disorder include: mood disorders, substance abuse and dependence, and personality disorders (APA, 2000). Specifically, a plethora of research studies displayed a predisposition to eating disorders among those diagnosed with depression (e.g., Fischer et al, 1995;Lyon & Chatoor, 1997;Moreno & Thelen, 1995;Nassar & Hodges, 1992;Pratt, Phillips, Greydanus, & Patel, 2003;Pryor & Weiderman, 1998). Proximal environmental factors also impact individual vulnerability and prognosis for recovery.…”