Some reflections on the nature of the eating disorders: On the need for humility

Abstract

For a long time, perhaps until as recently as about 1970, a person hospitalized for anorexia nervosa (AN) or bulimia was considered a sufficient rarity as to virtually guarantee his or her presentation at psychiatric or medical grand rounds. The esoteric nature of these diagnoses has changed dramatically in recent years, presumably as a consequence of an increase in both diagnostic sensitivity and actual incidence. Concomitantly, there has been a virtual explosion in serious clinical writings and research about the eating disorders. Furthermore, outpatient and inpatient eating disorder programs and self-help groups have begun to appear with impressive frequency, while autobiographical and fictional literary works concerning the eating disorders have shown a similiar capacity to multiply.

Eating Disorders in Athletes

“…Psychological, biological and social factors are implicated in the development of eating disorders (Katz 1985;Garner et al 1987). Athletes appear to be more vulnerable to eating disorders than the general population, because of additional stresses associated with the athletic environment (Hamilton et al 1985;Szmuckler et al 1985).…”

“…emphasis on leanness or individual competition) may interact with the personality traits of the athlete to start or perpetuate an eating disorder (Wilson & Eldredge 1992). Finally, athletes have reported that they developed eating disorders as a result of an injury or illness that left them temporarily unable to continue their normal level of exercise (Katz 1985;Sundgot-Borgen 1994a). An injury can curtail the athlete's exercise and training habits.…”