They usually attend the very best schools. Often, their families value physical fitness, and one or both parents will generally be on a diet. Mothers and sisters of anorexics frequently suffer from related eating disorders and place value on a slim appearance for family members. During childhood the anorexic is typically described as a model daughter who accepts all the family values and attempts to fulfill everyone s expectations. She is usually highly intelligent, but may be self-critical toward her school performance.
Anorexics tend toward extreme perfectionism.
She is competitive, yet somehow socially reserved, at times even shy. Although she usually relates well to her friends, these relationships are often superficial. The anorexic s initial decision to diet to improve her appearance is consistent with the family s value of a slim appearance. Over time she begins to demonstrate a subtle, sick preoccupation with dieting. She begins to develop a distorted body image and sees herself as heavier than she really is.