Eating disorders: do they mark cultural transition?

Eating disorders that were once viewed as exclusive to specific class and ethnic boundaries in western culture are now spreading worldwide. This issue is fully discussed in this groundbreaking volume.

Eating Disorders and Cultures in Transition is written by an international group of authors to address the recent emergence of eating disorders in various areas of the world including countries in South America, Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe. It offers an in-depth analysis of the existing socio-cultural model arguing...

This book utilizes a feminist perspective to illuminate and explore the relationship between the anguish of eating disorder sufferers and the problems of ordinary women. The book examines the sociocultural pressure on women to conform to culturally ideal body types and how this affects individual self-concept. Such controversial topics as the relationship between sexual abuse and eating disorders, the use of medications and the role of hospitalization, and 12-step programs are explored.