Eating Disorders: Creating a New Standard

Eating disorders are perhaps one of the most misunderstood diseases. Unlike other diseases, there has never been an epidemic of eating disorders. Rather, there has been an ebb and flow in the awareness surrounding them and the support for those that suffer. This research details eating disorders and the stereotypes regarding who falls victim to them, causes, the effect society has on eating disorders, and the effect disordered eating has on society. This study assessed the relationship sociocultural factors like culture, social media, and age have on eating disorders. Also assessed was the relationship between biological factors like gender and race and the role these factors play in perpetuating eating disorders. Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa were assessed regarding the impact they have on aspects of society like family and beauty standards. The intent in analyzing these disorders is to not only develop a deeper understanding of the disease but to create a new standard of beauty. This new model would include inclusion and acceptance of all sizes and races