Eating disorders are widely recognised and thought of as conditions solely affecting the female population. However, particularly in recent years, there has been a rise in boys and men suffering from physical and psychological complications directly related to eating disorders, coming forward for support and treatment.
- How common are eating disorders in men?
- How do eating disorders affect men?
- What is reverse anorexia?
- Treatment implications
How Common are Eating Disorders in Men?
It is widely accepted that there is a significantly lower prevalence rate of eating disorders seen among males than females. Recent research indicates that around 10-15% of cases diagnosed are male. Also, it is important to highlight that this is certainly not a new phenomena as the first recorded male suffering from anorexia nervosa dates as far back as the 1690s. The number of reported cases is evidenced to be rising, specifically in terms of adolescents. Many health professionals also believe that the condition in males is likely to be both under-reported and under-diagnosed.
How Do Eating Disorders Effect Men?
Apart from the obvious differences, such as menstruation, between men and women the effects are recognised as being rather similar. However, there are some key differences relating to the age of the condition beginning (later onset) substance abuse, sport, body image and dieting. Treasure et al. (2003) highlight that while both are believed to exhibit some concern about sex role identity the psychopathology is usually less severe in males compare to females. Athletes such as gymnasts, jockeys and runners are also deemed to be more at risk. Research indicates that men are more likely to use less harmful methods of control such as excessive exercise as opposed to women who more frequently use serious purging methods such as laxative abuse, diuretics, diet pills and emetics.
What is Reverse Anorexia?
Reverse anorexia is recognised as more common among bodybuilders. It is so called due to the accompanying reverse of associated self-perception symptoms. Apart from this, the condition closely resembles anorexia nervosa, although it may also involve the abuse of anabolic steroids.
Treatment Implications for Male Anorexics
There are several main treatment issues in relation to male sufferers including: the overwhelming majority of treatment is specifically aimed at girls/young women, some residential centres only accept women and there is an increased risk of isolation in treatment approaches such as group therapy where the sufferer may likely be the sole male patient.
Sources:
Freeman, C. (2002) Overcoming Anorexia Nervosa London: Constable Robinson
Shepphird, S. (2010) 100 Questions & Answers About Anorexia Nervosa Massachusetts: Jones and Bartlett
Treasure et al. (2003) Handbook of Eating Disorders Chichester: Wiley
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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