Book:
Smolak, L, Thompson, K.J. Body Image, Eating Disorders, and Obesity in Youth. 2nd ed. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association; 2009. ISBN: 9781433804052.
Chapter 5, pgs. 102-112, Chapter 6, pgs. 113-134 & Chapter 13, pgs. 261-279
Anorexia, bulimia, and related eating disorders are not unique to Western culture. A number of social and familial factors within modern, industrialized nations, however, appear to drive an apparent “epidemic” of eating disorders within the population. It has been demonstrated that immigrants coming from underdeveloped nations to industrial countries run a higher risk of developing an eating disorder than their counterparts who remain in the country of origin.
1. Why would people living in industrialized nations be more vulnerable to eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia?
2. Would you expect American children living abroad (for example, children of missionaries, international corporate managers, or servicemen/women) to experience more or less risk for eating disorders? Why or why not?
3. What is the influence of Western media on eating disorder development in non-Western nations?
4. Finally, debate the role of the church and faith-based coalitions in the prevention and treatment of eating disorders.
