PSYC 235 Chapter Notes - Chapter 8: Bulimia Nervosa, Water–Electrolyte Imbalance, Eating Disorder

• School: Queen's University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 235
• Professor: Dean A Tripp

Document Summary

Bulimia nervosa out of control eating episodes (binges) followed by vomiting or laxatives (purges), morbid fear of gaining weight. Must occur at least once a week for 3 months. Self evaluation unduly influence by body shape and weight. Depression can be a reaction to bulimia. Anorexia nervosa person eats nothing beyond minimal amounts of food, body weight drops dangerously, highest mortality rate of all psychological disorders, morbid fear of gaining weight. Increasing in incidence because of possible increase in social pressures, prevalence of dieting and preoccupation with body image. Binge eating/purging smaller portions and more consistent purging than bulimia. Must occur once a week for 3 months. Age and sex specificity of eating disorders indicate influence of socio-cultural factors. Age of onset typically 16-19 years of age. Anorexia more chronic and resistant to treatment than bulimia. Eating disorders much more prevalent in western societies where food is more abundant.