They also have a drive for perfection, a compulsion to always feel responsible and difficulty in expressing their feelings to others. Additionally, the anorexic feels an inner emptiness and is afraid to show and identify their emotions. There is generally confusion about body sensations, and a sense of ineffectiveness. The body is experienced as foreign and needs to be controlled against the danger of becoming fat. Articles relating to dieting have increased six times within the last four years.
Ads continually promote and display celebrities and models who are all thin.
Beautiful in our society equates with being waif-like and exceedingly thin. Disruptions in a child' s environment may change drastically as in divorce, separation, attending college, or the end of a relationship. Many feel the importance of being thin whether on their own or through culturally imposed stereotypes. Anorexics may use laxatives and diet pills to help foster the ideal shape they think is the norm. Associated with the significance of being thin is the importance of attractiveness which is needed for success in social and career settings.