Psychological effects have to with mind and how people think or perceives themselves. There is a high prevalence of youth who report weight/ shape concerns and distorted eating behaviors that might be medially and psychologically harmful. Adolescents engaging in disordered eating behaviors were more likely than non-affected adolescents to report mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, and substance use and misuse (Ackard, 2011). It has been found that “adolescents engaging in disordered eating behavior such as self-induced vomiting and laxative use for weight control may be at increased risk for suicidal behavior” (Ackard, 2011). In one case stud, 4,746 adolescents (50% boys and 50% girls) were recruited from 31 middle and high schools in urban and suburban schools in Minnesota. They participated in a study called EAT to test eating behaviors and weight-related issues. Four main topics were discussed focusing on substance use, suicidal ideation, self-esteem, and depressive mood. The study concluded that “all youth who engage in disordered eating behaviors and report body image disturbance are compromised in terms of their psychological and behavioral health risks compared with youth who do not report weight concerns” (Ackard, 1999). The psychological effects of eating disorders can be detrimental to an adolescent and affect their school life, they can face low test grades and lack a sense of belonging.
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