Causes of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders as the name itself suggests may have more to do with the inter-relationship between food and weight, but they are more often about things other than food. Social, emotional, behavioral, interpersonal and psychological factors, either singly or in groups can be the culprit behind eating disorders. Though it has not been established fully, scientists are studying the underlying physical and psychological causes of eating disorders.

People with eating disorders generally direct their ire on food to compensate and make up for their inner emotional turmoil. Therefore it does not come as a surprise to see people bingeing and purging on food to be able to cope up with their feelings; they see it as a way of controlling their lives. But at the end these behavioral and emotional problems give a serious blow on their physical and psychological health. Their self esteem, self control, and sense of competence and confidence go haywire.

Some of the Psychological Factors that can contribute to Eating Disorders are:

• Low confidence
• Feelings of inadequacy
• Lack of control in life
• Depression, anger, anxiety, or loneliness

The Interpersonal Factors that Can Contribute to Eating Disorders are as follows:

• Broken family and personal relationships
• Difficulty in expressing emotions and feelings
• History of being teased for your weight
• History of physical or sexual abuse

Social Factors that Can Contribute to Eating Disorders are:

• Cultural pressures and trends that glorify "thinness"
• Narrow definitions of beauty based on specific body weights and shapes
• Social systems that judge people on the basis of physical appearance and not inner qualities and strengths

Other Factors that can contribute to Eating Disorders are;

• Biochemical and biological causes
• Genetic contributions

Eating disorders are complex conditions with a number of potential and possible causes. If it is not treated properly, the patient can land up in a self-perpetuating vicious cycle of physical and emotional destruction. Remember, whatever be the causes, all eating disorders require professional help.