Prevention is any systematic attempt to change the circumstances that promote, sustain, or intensify problems such as eating disorders. Primary prevention refers to programs that are designed to prevent the occurrence of the target disorder before it begins, in other words, to promote and sustain healthy development. Primary prevention programs are often incorporated into the ongoing work of parents, teachers, clergy, and coaches. A great many more girls and women and a significant minority of men find their lives restricted by a negative body image and unhealthy weight management practices.
Primary prevention is the only solution.
Moreover, we truly believe that identifying and changing the conditions which promote eating disorders will improve the psychological and physical health of virtually everyone in our society, male and female alike. Every family, group, and community is different in terms of what might contribute to effective primary prevention. Thus, before we offer some specific suggestions for the prevention of eating disorders, we encourage you to consider adopting four principles which are generally applicable to doing prevention work in your family, your community, and your own life. Eating disorders are serious and complex problems. Males who are preoccupied with shape and weight can also develop disordered eating patterns as well as dangerous shape control practices such as steroid use.