Eating disorders are pathologies mainly characterized by the morbid fear of gaining weight. Several factors comprise the etiology, the endurance and severity of these illnesses such as patient's individuality, family and culture. About the latter, the historical, aesthetic, the media, transcultural, socioeconomic, racial and gender roles are underlined. Recent research performed in various cultural backgrounds has shown the existence of a relationship between these factors and the levels of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. The aim of this article is to show a discussion about the cultural aspects involved in the increase number of cases of eating disorders. This paper aims to underline the need of experts of various fields to be aware of the dangers of the present beauty standards, so that preventive interventions can be addressed.
Eating disorders; cultural aspects; beauty standards