Misconceptions
It is common misconception that eating disorders only affect white, adolescent females. Eating disorders affect all genders, economic classes, races, and ethnicities. According to the National Association of Anorexia and Associated Disorders, about 1 out of every 10 cases of eating disorders involves a male. Since eating disorders are more common in females, males tend to go undiagnosed for a longer period of time and feel ashamed for having a disorder that is typically seen in females. Males may have eating disorders as a result of teasing or “lack” of athletic ability (ANAD, 2011).
Another common misconception is that bulimia is just a problem with food. However, a binge can be triggered by dieting, stress, or emotions such as anger or sadness. Purging to prevent weight gain is more of a way for patients with bulimia to have more control over their lives and to ease stress and anxiety (Office on Women's Health in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2009).
It is common misconception that eating disorders only affect white, adolescent females. Eating disorders affect all genders, economic classes, races, and ethnicities. According to the National Association of Anorexia and Associated Disorders, about 1 out of every 10 cases of eating disorders involves a male. Since eating disorders are more common in females, males tend to go undiagnosed for a longer period of time and feel ashamed for having a disorder that is typically seen in females. Males may have eating disorders as a result of teasing or “lack” of athletic ability (ANAD, 2011).
Another common misconception is that bulimia is just a problem with food. However, a binge can be triggered by dieting, stress, or emotions such as anger or sadness. Purging to prevent weight gain is more of a way for patients with bulimia to have more control over their lives and to ease stress and anxiety (Office on Women's Health in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2009).