The most common ages of onset are 11 and 18, the beginning and ending of adolescence. The disorder is mostly diagnosed in the upper middle class. However, both rich and poor can develop the disorder. Even though anorexics are extremely thin and underweight, most insist that they are not hungry or thin. It is not easily recognized by others because bulimics may be of normal weight or a little overweight.
Bulimics are aware of the problem and try to keep it a secret.
Bulimics may become depressed, guilty, and disgusted with their binge-purge cycles. Yet they will not stop the behavior. A desire for control, competence, and independence. Discomfort with sexual thoughts and feelings. A desire for quick results from dieting.