Disorders related to nutrition pose a significant threat and their number continues to grow. They have both physical and psychological impacts and present a major challenge for both those who experience them and the entire healthcare system. Among these disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, orthorexia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. The underlying causes of these disorders are complex patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that often stem from negative beliefs, low self-esteem, and a disordered relationship with food. Therefore, understanding the nature, causes, and effects of these disorders, as well as applying an appropriate therapeutic approach, is crucial in dealing with them. One of the most frequently used treatment methods is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
Etiological determinants of eating disorders: a multidimensional analytical framework
Eating disorders constitute a multifactorial health phenomenon whose origins stem from the interplay of psychological, sociocultural, and environmental determinants. Individuals characterized by diminished self-worth, perfectionistic tendencies, or elevated anxiety levels exhibit heightened vulnerability. Such persons frequently manifest distorted body image perceptions and maladaptive cognitive patterns regarding weight. Societal and culturally mediated pressures to conform to aesthetic ideals significantly contribute to the development of dysfunctional eating behaviors. Furthermore, traumatic experiences (e.g., familial discord, abuse) may predispose individuals to employ food consumption as an emotional coping mechanism. Notably, eating disorders frequently co-occur with other psychiatric conditions, including depressive disorders and anxiety syndromes. The etiological complexity necessitates personalized therapeutic interventions (Treasure et al., 2020).
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