Conclude by asking students how they can help themselves to counteract the effect of these mixed messages and avoid conditions that trigger eating disorders. Explain that anorexia is self-inflicted starvation and that bulimia is dangerous overeating and purging. Talk about the dangers of these diseases. Next, ask students to discuss ways that television reinforces our ideas about food, ideal body images, and positive behaviors. Back to Top 1.
Researchers cite environment, biochemistry, and genetics among possible causes of eating disorders.
Analyze what this means in terms of treatment of the disease. Eating disorders are diseases still found predominantly among young women, yet studies show more and more young men are exhibiting symptoms. Closely examine your daily life and those factors that influence your eating habits. Explain your answers. Imagine you have noticed that a good friend is showing signs of a possible eating disorder.