Expert: Ryan Hale - 4/13/2011

Question
Hi Ryan

I'm a year 12 student currently doing a study on media influences towards youth body image.

Has the frequency of eating disorder risen since the past years? Would there be a relation to this and the mass media?

also,

if it's alright,
could you refer me to some useful information

thank you so much!

sincerely,

Luqman

Answer
It has been found that women (and some men) in areas of the world with limited media availability have experienced less of a problem with eating disorders.  As media has become more available in those areas, the incidence of eating disorders has increased.  Culturally, there have been groups of people who have largely been unaffected by eating disorders who are starting to experience a rise in the numbers of eating disorders they've experienced.  These groups, specifically in the US, have been black and Latino communities.  Other groups include Pacific Islanders.  

It has been documented thought that there have been eating disorders in ancient history and US history and even in populations where there is hardship and starvation.

The info that comes to mind is from the National Institute of Mental Health web site and the Denver Center for Eating Disorders site.