Overview of Eating Disorders

Flashcards covering key concepts related to eating disorders, including definitions, types, risk factors, societal dimensions, and treatment approaches.

What are eating disorders characterized by?

Harmful eating behaviors often developed as a way to cope with anxiety, sadness, trauma, anger, or feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

How are eating disorders different from disordered eating?

Eating disorders are clinical conditions, while disordered eating refers to behaviors like fad diets or occasional self-starvation.

What factors contribute to the development of eating disorders?

Genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

Is there a gene that directly causes eating disorders?

No, but family patterns and similar parenting practices are common.

What role does childhood bullying play in eating disorders?

It can contribute to the development of eating disorders, especially bullying related to weight.

Which family dynamics can increase the risk of eating disorders?

Parental criticism, unpredictable home life, and having family members with body issues or eating disorders.

What societal pressures contribute to eating disorders?

Diet culture, weight stigma, and labeling of foods as 'good' or 'bad'.

How can perfectionism relate to eating disorders?

It is often associated with traits seen in individuals with eating disorders.

What is Anorexia Nervosa?

An eating disorder characterized by extreme food restriction and intense fear of gaining weight.

What are common physical effects of Anorexia Nervosa?

Muscle damage, rapid heartbeat, osteoporosis, electrolyte imbalances, and risk of stroke.

What psychological feature often accompanies Anorexia?

Body dysmorphia persists even at low weight.

Describe Bulimia Nervosa.

Recurrent binge eating followed by purging, at least once a week for three months.

What medical complications are associated with Bulimia Nervosa?

Dental issues from stomach acid, heart risks, and electrolyte imbalances.

Where are eating disorders often detected first?

By dentists due to tooth erosion and other dental issues.

What is Binge Eating Disorder?

Uncontrolled episodes of excessive eating done in secret, with no purging.

What are typical triggers for Binge Eating Disorder?

Negative emotions leading to guilt, shame, or discomfort from overeating.

How is Binge Eating Disorder related to obesity?

It is often associated with obesity and may develop after weight loss surgeries.

What societal view reinforces unhealthy eating behaviors?

The view that thinness is positive.

How does obesity relate to eating disorders?

Obesity and eating disorders are highly correlated, often exacerbating depression.

What treatments are effective for eating disorders?

Cognitive and behavioral therapy approaches, with a focus beyond just weight.

What is a common form of treatment for eating disorders?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and SSRIs.

Why is weight restoration difficult for patients?

Fear of gaining weight due to societal perceptions and personal beliefs.

What can be a consequence of using weight loss surgeries without addressing psychological issues?

They risk failure and possible abuse.

What are some associated health issues stemming from obesity?

Cardiovascular strain, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and joint problems.

How does obesity intertwine with eating disorders?

It is both a physiological and psychological issue, creating a vicious cycle.

What psychological issue often coexists with eating disorders?

Depression, leading to further disordered eating and distress.

What type of care is often attempted for eating disorders?

Residential care in hospitals.

Why can residential care be ineffective for treating eating disorders?

Patients can teach each other maladaptive behaviors.

How does culture affect the perception of body weight?

Cultural ideals can discriminate against higher body weights, with children being particularly vulnerable.

What is the role of emotional and physical abuse in the development of eating disorders?

They are significant risk factors that may contribute to the onset of eating disorders.

What are some common psychological traits found in individuals with eating disorders?

Perfectionism, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and overachiever behavior.

How can family dynamics influence eating disorders?

Family members with body issues can increase vulnerability to eating disorders.

What is a common misconception about eating disorders?

That they are choices or attention-seeking behaviors.

What is the ongoing societal trend related to obesity?

The rise of obesity globally linked to sedentary lifestyles and processed diets.

During what life stage do most eating disorders begin?

Most cases begin in adolescence.

What stressful transitions may trigger eating disorders?

Transitions like going to college or other significant life changes.

What is the importance of addressing underlying psychological issues in treatment?

Without addressing these issues, treatments like medication and surgery may risk failure.

What are potential long-term effects of Bulimia Nervosa on the body?

Possible esophageal damage and dental problems, among others.

What may cause patients to struggle with accepting weight gain during treatment?

Perceptions of weight gain as a lack of willpower and status.

What should effective treatments for eating disorders focus on?

Cognitive and behavioral changes rather than just weight.

How can societal and cultural pressures exacerbate eating disorders?

They can reinforce negative body image and unhealthy eating behaviors.

How do family rituals influence Binge Eating Disorder?

Coping mechanisms may include rewarding behaviors with food, often rooted in family or cultural practices.

What is the significance of the phrase 'good vs bad' food labeling?

It contributes to diet culture and can perpetuate disordered eating behaviors.

What physical warning signs of eating disorders may dentists observe?

Tooth erosion and calluses on hands from inducing vomiting.

What role does the heart play in Anorexia Nervosa?

It is the organ most affected, leading to serious complications.

Why is the rise of obesity considered both a physiological and psychological issue?

It affects physical health and is linked with mental health disorders like depression.

What is one of the risks associated with Anorexia Nervosa?

Risk of cardiac events due to heart strain from malnutrition.

Which age group is especially vulnerable to societal pressures about body weight?

Children.

What aspect of treatment is often seen as the hardest for patients?

Accepting and undergoing weight restoration.

Which psychological condition is associated with eating disorders besides depression?

Anxiety.

What factor increases the risk of developing Binge Eating Disorder after weight loss?

Negative emotions and unsuccessful weight management.

What aspect of culture contributes to the stigmatization of weight?

Cultural ideals that favor thinner body types over larger ones.

What outcomes may result from untreated eating disorders?

Worsening of health issues, psychological distress, and potential fatality.

How can society’s view on thinness affect individuals with eating disorders?

It can reinforce unhealthy behaviors and impact self-esteem.

What cognitive approach is utilized in the treatment of eating disorders?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

What is a societal trend linked to increasing obesity rates?

Sedentary lifestyles and reliance on processed foods.

What is the role of medication in the treatment of eating disorders?

It can help manage psychological symptoms but must be paired with therapy for effectiveness.

What can untreated obesity lead to in physical health?

Increased risk of cardiovascular issues and metabolic disorders.

Why might children be particularly affected by cultural ideals surrounding body image?

They are still developing their self-identity and can be easily influenced.

What forms of purging are commonly associated with Bulimia Nervosa?

Vomiting, laxative use, and excessive exercise.

What long-term health issue is associated with not treating eating disorders?

Chronic conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, and metabolic issues.

How do transitions in life impact the onset of eating disorders?

Stressful transitions can trigger or exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.

What is a psychological trait often obsessively pursued by individuals with eating disorders?

Perfectionism.

Which organ is most affected by Bulimia Nervosa?

The teeth, due to erosion from stomach acid.

How does cultural bias impact the treatment of eating disorders?

Cultural bias may affect diagnosis and the appropriateness of treatment methods.