What causes an eating disorder?

There is no simple answer to this question, as the potential causes for an eating disorder are quite complex. Eating disorder are often blamed on modern day social pressure for people to look a certain way. Although our social and cultural environment is an important factor to be considered, the cause are usually more complex than this and there are several other factors and influences that need to be taken into account.

Genetics:

It has been found that most of the eating disorders run in families. For example, Anorexia is eight times more common in people who have relatives who have suffered or are suffering from the disorder. Twin studies have also suggested that twins have a tendency to share the same eating disorders. Some studies also imply that genes have an impact on the way serotonin works. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that is involved with a person's appetite and general well being. Also, there have been reported links between regions on chromosome 10 and Bulimia.

Family Influences:

It is considered that negative influences within a family can both start off and maintain an eating disorder. Poor parenting attitudes seem to be a big factor as poor parenting from both the mother and the father have been implicated in eating disorders. Abuse has also been associated with eating disorders. Bulimia seems to have a positive correlation with childhood sexual abuse. Also, a history of weight related bullying is considered to be an important trigger.
Emotional disorders and addictions within the family have an influence on children as well. It has been reported that children whose parents suffer with alcoholism and substance abuse are more prone to anorexia and bulimia when compared with the general population. Bulimia can also be linked to children whose parents suffer with a psychiatric disorder.

Cultural Factors:

Media influences and pressure on being thin are likely to play a role in triggering eating disorders. For example, models advertising clothing are often very slim and this is the example that young people are set  and may feel pressured to follow. Another example is the constant criticism in magazines over celebrity's body images and their weight.

Psychological Factors:

There are several personality traits that have been linked to eating disorders. People with eating disorders often tend to be perfectionists and often have unrealistic expectations of themselves and others. Low self esteem and feelings of inadequacy as well as feeling a lack of control in life are all associated with eating disorders. Certain personality types are also more at risk of eating disorders, examples are obsessive -compulsive personalities and sensitive-avoidant personalities.



Obviously, there is an extensive amount of research that has and is being conducted into the causes of eating disorders. But hopefully this gives you a concise understanding of some of the factors involved. Usually, it is too simplistic to say that one thing can cause a person to have an eating disorder. Often, several factors interplay with each other to make someone at risk of a eating disorder.