A few years ago, experts at the International Conference on Eating Disorders in Orlando, Florida, came up with the following criteria that are linked to the development of eating disorders.
Two of the top risk factors are being female and under 20 years old. Over 90% of those who have anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder, bulimia, and other non-specified eating disorders are girls, but that is slowly changing. In fact, some experts believe the actual percent of boys with eating disorders is closer to 25% of the total. Over 85% of those with eating disorders develop symptoms before age 20 years old.
The following criteria were linked to an increased likelihood of developing an eating disorder:
- Female
- Under 20 years old
- Above average concerns about weight before age 14
- Behavior problems before age 14
- High level stress levels
- Stressful life events, usually one year before onset of illness
- History of dieting
- Mother who diets and is concerned about appearance
- Siblings who diet and are concerned about appearance
- Sibling rivalry
- Sibling rivalry over body style and weight
- Peers who diet and are concerned about appearance
- Negative self-evaluation
- Perfectionism
- No male friends
- Parents are overly controlling
- Shy and/or anxious
- Distressed by parental arguments
- Critical comments from family members about weight, body shape and eating habits
- Teasing about weight, body shape and appearance
Labels: risk factors
Posted By: CRC Health
