Eating Disorders: A Problem For Males Too
Posted on: September 7th, 2017
It’s a common misconception that eating disorders only effect females. In recent years anorexia, bulimia and especially binge- eating disorder has been on the rise among males. Boys as young as eight are being diagnosed with anorexia and a staggering 40% of those with binge eating disorders are male.
Our culture, constantly promoting perfection, puts pressure on both genders, but in different ways. Boys are heavily influenced by superhero movies, video games and action figures. The bodies of these superheroes are absurdly unrealistic with huge muscles, wide shoulders and tiny waists. This has a profound impact on boys, much in the way the modeling industry and Barbie has a powerful sway over girls.
Puberty is a period of turmoil for boys as hormones are driving so many changes in the body. Unfortunately, this is also a time when boys feel pressure to be strong physically – often before their bodies are able to achieve anything even remotely close to the ideal body image they see in the media. Like girls, boys agonize over their looks so this can create a real sense of inadequacy and low self esteem.
The beliefs and attitudes that form during puberty can shape behaviors for many years to come and sometimes poor body image leads to developing eating disorders. However, there are ways to intervene and help boys establish good eating habits and a healthy body image.
- Communication is essential. Encourage them to open up about their concerns and fears. Sometimes doing activities together provides the best opportunity for getting a dialogue going.
- Emphasize that to fit in boys don’t have to be muscle-bound, super-athletes. Remind them that striving for that is completely unrealistic.
- Help them understand that all of us, young and old, are limited by our genes and that each of us is attractive in our own unique way.
- Reminds them that when it comes to understanding what is valuable about themselves it’s better to focus more on the inside, instead of the outside.
- Advise them to reject the grow-up-fast mentality promoted by the media. Suggest that they slow down and enjoy their youth.
- Expand their idea of “masculinity” to include such characteristics as caring, nurturing, and cooperation.
- Respect their need for space, privacy, and boundaries. Be careful about being overprotective.
- Allow them to exercise control and make their own decisions whenever possible, including what and how much they eat, how they look, and how much they weigh.
For boys already struggling with eating disorders, take it seriously and seek professional help immediately. Contact Maureen Kritzer-Lange Psychotherapy at 973-313-1691 or info@maureenkritzerlange.com.
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