Causes of eating disorders

Possible risk factors »  Adolescent developmental issues »  Genetic predisposition »  Psychological factors »  Family issues

While no single set of risk factors can be conclusively linked to eating disorders, there are indications. Many adolescents and adults exhibit some unhealthy eating behaviors, such as skipping meals and eliminating food groups. Other behaviors are more serious, and can be diagnosed as eating disorders. Factors that may influence the development of eating disorders include the following.

• Sociocultural expectations of thinness and unhealthy body image. Magazines and television shows perpetuate the ideal of thinness and the notion, "The thinner you are, the happier you are." As teens overhear conversations about the newest diet, weight loss and negative body image, the real message continues to be, "A person's physical appearance is more important than what is inside."
• Dysfunctional eating. The diet industry in the United States grosses about $40 billion each year. Ninety-five percent of diets fail to produce permanent weight loss, and most dieters gain weight after discontinuing the diet. Weight gain triggers feelings of failure, low self-esteem, disappointment and more pressure to find another quick-fix diet.

Read about signs and symptoms and common myths.