Why Anorexia Is Viewed as an Eating Disorder?

Why Anorexia Is Viewed as an Eating Disorder?

Anorexia Nervosa, commonly referred to as anorexia, is recognized as an eating disorder due to its characteristic patterns of extreme food restriction, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. These behaviors and thoughts significantly impair an individual’s physical health and mental wellbeing.

What Teachers Are Looking For:

When answering this question for the Life Orientation Grade 10 Task 3 Project on “Careers and Career Choices” and “Development of the Self in Society,” teachers are looking for:

1. Clarity and Depth: Clear and detailed explanation of why anorexia is classified as an eating disorder.
2. Relevance to the Project: Connecting the explanation to the project’s focus on personal development and health.
3. Use of Examples: Providing examples to illustrate the points can enhance understanding.
4. Connection to Sub-topics: Relating the explanation to sub-topics like mental health and the impact on career choices.
5. Language and Expression: Clear and concise language, appropriate for the academic level, showing the ability to communicate effectively.

Example Answer:

Why Anorexia Is Viewed as an Eating Disorder?

Anorexia Nervosa is viewed as an eating disorder for several reasons:

1. Extreme Food Restriction:
   • Individuals with anorexia severely limit their food intake, leading to significant weight loss and malnutrition. This extreme restriction is a hallmark of eating disorders, as it reflects an unhealthy relationship with food and eating. For example, a person with anorexia may consume only minimal calories each day, far below the necessary amount for healthy functioning.
2. Intense Fear of Gaining Weight:
   • A defining characteristic of anorexia is an intense fear of gaining weight, even when the individual is underweight. This fear drives the restrictive eating behaviors and is a key component of the disorder. For instance, someone with anorexia may weigh themselves multiple times a day and experience extreme anxiety over any perceived weight gain.
3. Distorted Body Image:
   • People with anorexia often have a distorted perception of their body size and shape, believing they are overweight even when they are dangerously thin. This body dysmorphia is a common feature of eating disorders and contributes to the ongoing cycle of restriction and weight loss. For example, a person with anorexia might look in the mirror and see themselves as overweight despite being underweight.
4. Significant Health Risks:
   • The severe food restriction and malnutrition associated with anorexia lead to numerous physical and mental health issues, which is why it is classified as a disorder. Health complications can include heart problems, bone density loss, and severe dehydration, all of which can be life-threatening. Additionally, anorexia often coexists with other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, further impacting overall wellbeing.

Example of Impact:

• In the context of “Careers and Career Choices” and “Development of the Self in Society,” anorexia can have a profound impact on an individual’s ability to pursue and succeed in their career. The physical and mental health challenges posed by the disorder can affect concentration, energy levels, and overall performance in both academic and professional settings. Recognizing and addressing anorexia as an eating disorder is crucial for supporting individuals in achieving their career goals and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Literature:

Anorexia nervosa is recognized as an eating disorder due to its severe impact on both physical health and mental wellbeing. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), anorexia is characterized by restrictive eating, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image, leading to dangerously low body weight. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) highlights that individuals with anorexia often experience malnutrition, leading to severe medical complications such as osteoporosis, heart issues, and organ failure. These physical health risks underscore why anorexia is classified as a serious eating disorder.

Additionally, anorexia is associated with significant psychological distress and comorbid conditions such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Studies conducted in South Africa by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) reveal that the prevalence of eating disorders, including anorexia, is increasing, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Theories such as the cognitive-behavioral model explain that the disorder is maintained by dysfunctional beliefs about body image and self-worth, leading to persistent restrictive eating behaviors. For example, a study by the University of Cape Town found that societal pressures and cultural factors significantly contribute to the development and maintenance of anorexia among South African youth. These findings highlight the critical need to view anorexia as an eating disorder due to its complex interplay of physical and psychological factors.

By addressing these points, students can provide a comprehensive and well-rounded answer that meets the expectations of the teachers.