Behaviors and Root Issues

Factors/root issues
(Mercy for Eating Disorders, Nancy Alcorn)

• Societal and cultural values that equate being attractive with slenderness
  
• Distorted body image and denial
  
• Using food as a reward or punishment
  
• Irrational beliefs and distorted thinking
  
• Perfectionism
  
• Low self-esteem
  
• Depression
  
• Control
  
• Dependency
  
• Distorted sexual identity
  
• Dysfunctional family system
  
• Performance pressure from family
  
• Involvement in activities that promote thinness for success

Behaviors commonly associated with eating disorders
(Mercy for Eating Disorders, Nancy Alcorn)

• Frequent gazing in mirrors
• Discomfort when eating in public
• Constant weighing
• Misperceptions of hunger and satiety
• Distorted body image
• Marked changes in personality, moods or habits
• Preoccupation with exercise
• Inability to concentrate
• Uses excessive amounts of condiments
• Eats spicy food often
• Stealing food
• Problems with interpersonal relationship
• Obsessive-compulsive behavior
• Difficulty sleeping, fatigue
• Performance-based behavior
• Highly competitive