It is generally accepted that eating disorders are a serious concern among women but we are faced with a severe lack of research into the prevalence of men struggling with their body image. Sadly, many doctors still do not recognize cases of eating disorders in men with the result that fewer than 5% of all referrals to specialist eating disorder clinics are male (Morgan: 2008).
Pollack (1999) discovered that at Harvard Medical School, there is increasing evidence that many men (and probably boys too) are becoming increasingly obsessed with their bodies. Men are beginning to diet in unprecedented numbers with an estimated one million of them suffering from eating disorders (Luciano: 2002). This figure of one million is perceived to be understated as males with eating disorders are for too often under diagnosed.
Andersen et al. (2000) confirms that eating disorders in males has been overlooked and in some treatment centres, the ratio of men to women has changed over the past ten years from almost entirely women to 50:50. In Psychology Today magazine in 1997, an amazing 43%, nearly half of the men in the survey reported that they were dissatisfied with their overall appearance. Of those men surveyed, 63% were dissatisfied with their abdomen, 52% with their weight, 55% with their muscle tone and 38% with their chest (Pope et al: 2000).
There does not seem to be a specific age at which men develop eating disorders, with sufferers as young as eight years old and eating disorders usually appearing around 14-25 years of age (B-eat). Children as young as two years old have already developed damaging eating habits, this can lead to eating disorders as the child ages, with 52,17% of eating disorders persisting into adulthood (Sancho et al: 2007). Morgan (2008) explains that eating disorders and body image problems develop slowly and subtly, but once you start to use eating habits and exercise as a means of dealing with distressing emotions, then there may be a problem. In a Brief History of Eating Disorders (2009) we find that after puberty, one million boys and men will have eating disorders; this coupled with Paterson’s statement that ‘on average, it seems to be approximately six years before men [or boys] will seek help’...
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction & prevalence
- Signs and Symptoms
- History of eating disorders
- Anorexia Nervosa in Males
- Bulimia Nervosa in Males
- Compulsive Overeating in Males
- Triggers for the development of eating disorders
- Muscle Dysmorphia
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder and its relationship with eating disorders
- Men and their emotions
- Eating Disorders and associated Depression
- Sexual orientation and eating disorders
- Treatment strategies
- Assistance and support for sufferers and family members
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This document aims to shed light on the prevalence and complexities of eating disorders in males, highlighting a crucial yet often overlooked issue within the field of mental health. It examines the historical context of disordered eating habits and explores the multifaceted nature of these conditions in men, encompassing signs and symptoms, triggers, associated psychological issues, and treatment approaches.
- The prevalence and recognition of eating disorders in men
- The signs and symptoms of eating disorders in males
- The historical context of eating disorders and their societal influence
- The psychological and emotional factors contributing to eating disorders in men
- The role of social and cultural pressures on body image and eating habits
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction & Prevalence: This chapter introduces the topic of eating disorders in males, highlighting the concerning lack of research and recognition of this issue. It discusses statistics highlighting the prevalence of eating disorders in men and emphasizes the underdiagnosis of this problem.
- Signs and Symptoms: This chapter presents a comprehensive list of signs and symptoms commonly associated with eating disorders in males. It includes both physical and behavioral indicators and emphasizes the importance of recognizing these cues in individuals who may be struggling. The chapter also discusses specific questionnaires that can be used to help identify potential cases.
- History of Eating Disorders: This chapter delves into the historical context of disordered eating habits, tracing the evolution of these behaviors through various eras and cultures. It examines societal pressures and cultural ideals that have shaped the development and perception of eating disorders throughout history.
- Anorexia Nervosa in Males: This chapter provides a detailed overview of anorexia nervosa in men, focusing on the specific symptoms and challenges faced by males with this disorder. It explores the complexities of this condition in the context of societal expectations and the pressure to conform to traditional masculine ideals.
- Bulimia Nervosa in Males: This chapter examines bulimia nervosa in men, exploring the unique characteristics and manifestations of this disorder in the male population. It sheds light on the psychological and behavioral aspects of bulimia nervosa in the context of male experiences.
- Compulsive Overeating in Males: This chapter delves into the challenges of compulsive overeating in males, discussing the specific factors that contribute to this condition in men. It explores the psychological underpinnings of compulsive overeating and its impact on the individual's well-being.
- Triggers for the Development of Eating Disorders: This chapter examines the various triggers and factors that can contribute to the development of eating disorders in males. It investigates the complex interplay of social, cultural, psychological, and personal influences that can play a role in the onset of these conditions.
- Muscle Dysmorphia: This chapter explores the specific disorder of muscle dysmorphia, focusing on its prevalence and characteristics in men. It examines the psychological and behavioral aspects of this condition and its impact on the individual's self-perception.
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder and its relationship with eating disorders: This chapter delves into the relationship between body dysmorphic disorder and eating disorders in males. It explores the overlapping symptoms and shared psychological underpinnings of these conditions and examines how they can influence and exacerbate each other.
- Men and their emotions: This chapter examines the role of emotional expression and regulation in the development and maintenance of eating disorders in men. It explores the societal expectations surrounding masculinity and how these can impact the way men experience and cope with emotions.
- Eating Disorders and Associated Depression: This chapter discusses the strong correlation between eating disorders and depression in males. It examines the shared biological and psychological pathways that contribute to these conditions and explores the impact of depression on the course and treatment of eating disorders.
- Sexual orientation and eating disorders: This chapter explores the relationship between sexual orientation and eating disorders in males, acknowledging the unique experiences and challenges faced by men within the LGBTQ+ community. It investigates how societal pressures and expectations can contribute to body image issues and disordered eating behaviors.
- Treatment strategies: This chapter outlines various treatment approaches for eating disorders in males, highlighting the importance of individualized care and the integration of therapy, nutrition counseling, and medical interventions. It discusses the specific challenges and considerations involved in treating men with eating disorders.
- Assistance and support for sufferers and family members: This chapter provides resources and information on support groups, organizations, and helplines for both individuals struggling with eating disorders and their families. It emphasizes the importance of seeking help and finding a supportive community.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This document delves into the world of eating disorders in males, exploring topics such as prevalence, signs and symptoms, historical context, triggers, and treatment strategies. It examines the psychological and emotional aspects of these conditions and the significant impact of cultural pressures on body image and eating habits. The text also highlights the importance of addressing the underdiagnosis of eating disorders in men and promoting awareness and support for individuals struggling with these challenges.
- Quote paper
- Gary Elliott (Author), 2010, Eating Disorders in Males, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/275077
