Current Trends

Disordered eating issues are on the rise, and younger children are being diagnosed at concerning rates. Current research shows that up to 40% of 9 year-olds have been on diet, and eating disorder hospitalizations for children younger than 12 increased by 119% between 1999-2006. The sharpest increase in treatment was seen in boys and minority youths.

Currently, there are several emerging and continuing trends that parents should be aware of, and that their child may be exposed to on a daily basis. Keeping these influences in mind may help to protect your child from unhealthy influences, as well as open up a dialogue around their curiosities and social stimuli.

The following provides some facts and information about current emerging and known trends in food and body image issues:

• 14-62% of athletes are affected by a diagnosable eating disorder, with “appearance” sports being the most susceptible.
• “Teen Toxing Trend”: 12,000 procedures performed on children ages 13-19 in 2008, up 2% from previous year.
• 36,800 teens had cosmetic surgery in 2009.
• 40-60% of high school girls diet, 13% purge.
• 30-40% of junior high school girls worry about their weight.
• 5-10% of those with diagnosable eating disorders are boys, and rates may be higher due to underreporting rates and current diagnostic criteria (amenorrhea).
• Nearly 1/3 of teens take diet pills, which are readily available in local drug or health food stores, with virtually no regulation.
• “Drunk-o-rexia”: combination of disordered eating and heavy alcohol consumption, where calories are “saved” to prevent weight gain from excessive drinking. Puts people risk for impulsivity, sexual activity, alcohol poisoning, addiction, and increased health problems.
• The epidemic of bullying in creating disordered eating and body image issues is alarming. Research shows more than 50% of those diagnosed with an eating disorder attribute bullying as a main cause.
• According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than half a million teenagers are using anabolic steroids.
• Social media influences: postings on Facebook create insecurities and competition. Formspring creates an environment of abuse and bullying. Chat Roulette and Omegle causes children to be victimized by predators wanting to sexually exploit them. Pro Eating Disordered websites offer tips and support to prolong disordered behaviors.