Volunteering, sports and relationships. Having control over even one aspect of life is an accomplishment. On the national level more than 5 million Americans suffer from eating disorders 5 percent of adolescent and adult women, and 1 percent of men have anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge-eating disorder. Fifteen percent of young women have substantially disordered eating attitudes and behaviors, and an estimated 1,000 women die each year of anorexia nervosa. On a college campus appearance is very important in attracting a mate, especially in the age group 18 to 24.
Appearance is seen as a key to success.
Pendley added that many other aspects of college life add to the ideal environment for eating disorders. This worry causes them to forget that their bodies are naturally maturing and changing, and the weight gain experienced is not always fat. Another factor is residence halls. Several other factors are also involved. Bulimia might develop because students have unlimited access to food in the dining hall.