People with eating disorders often conform to certain personality traits and environmental challenges. In addition, scientific research is beginning to weigh in with biological proof that certain individuals carry a genetic predisposition for eating disorders. The following represents the highlights of our understandings thus far.

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The Eating Disordered Personality Profile:
Type AAA Personality
Highly Intelligent
Creative & Caring (Social conscience)
Poor sense of self
Poor emotional coping skills
Family history of eating disorderss

The Eating Disorder-Conducive Environment:
All ethnicities and ages, anorexia & bulimia more prevalent in females 12-25
Exposure to Western culture & media
“Early bloomers” physically
Victims of abuse – sexual, other
Exposure to parental/peer criticism
Dependent in a controlling relationship
Unmanageable stress during critical ‘life transitions’
Athletes, especially those in weight-sensitive sports
Models, Greek life members, actors/entertainers


ED & Biology:
“Nature vs. Nurture” currently being explored
- 56% genetic - 44% environmental
Chromosome 1 Genetic Linkage discovered for anorexia
Chromosome 10p Genetic Linkage discovered for bulimia
Hypothalamus – damage can cause inability to regulate eating behaviors
Taste-processing centers function differently in brains of anorexics
Dopamine, Serotonin and Norepinephrine are key hormones
Serotonin Imbalances = inability to achieve feelings of wellbeing, satiation
Binges correct LOW Serotonin levels; Restriction corrects HIGH serotonin levels
Dopamine Imbalances = changes responses to reward/reinforcement; pleasure
Norepinephrine Imbalances = mood regulation, anxiety, depression
Physiological changes induced by malnutrition cause changes to hormone levels and brain chemistry – produces ‘addiction’ to disordered eating behaviors