Anorexia Nervosa Research Paper

INTRODUCTION
Anorexia Nervosa is a mental condition which affects one's both physical and mental health. It is a condition that causes one to have a distorted self-image and forces themselves to starve even if their body weight is already dangerously low. They often restrict their food intake to the point where they are extremely thin. Anorexia is found to occur most often in women, especially those who are aged 15 to 35. There have been cases reported as early as the age of 7 and as late as the age of 80. Researchers believe that about 5 to 10 percent of women overall have a distorted body image but approximately 1 to 2 percent of those women suffer from anorexia nervosa. Often at times anorexia can begin during the early teen years.
The number one cause of anorexia has often been believed to be a low self-esteem and a distorted body image. In fact, many anorexics think they are fat when in reality they are just the normal weight for their age and height. Often one develops anorexia in order to obtain a perfect body image in their perception. The goal to obtain the perfect body results in an obsession with dieting, weight and exercise. Those who suffer from anorexia are often depressed, withdrawn, or may feel the need to be in control. They may feel that starving themselves gives them total control of their body. Also, anorexics can be perfectionists, which may cause the need to have the ideal body. Another cause of anorexia has been said to be the image produced by the media and society, which portrays the ideal person to be fit and thin. Many anorexics have been said to believe that they only way to be considered attractive and successful was to be thin. Pressure from families and peeps has also been stated as a caused for anorexia. Comments about their appearance and weight have driven anorexics to starve themselves. As well, previous abuse has also driven people to become