Men's Experiences with Eating Disorders: (uncommon Lives? a Look at the Experiences of Men with Eating Disorders)

The purpose of this study was to examine, describe, and explain experiences of men with eating disorders and to gain understanding of the relevant life issues, perceptions, and attitudes. What are some of the contributing factors and experiences of men who suffer from eating disorders despite the widely held assumption that eating disorders are "feminine disorders," and more importantly, what is it like to be a man with an eating disorder. The results of the study revealed that although the personalities of the men interviewed were different, as were their families of origin, their socio-economic status, their careers, and their sexual orientation, still many common elements emerged. This suggests that a variety of origins and factors contribute to men's eating disorders. Eating disorders in men take many forms, but the review of literature and the interviews with men suggest that common components of isolation, shame, and angst with regard to food are prevalent in the experiences of all men suffering from these disorders. Medical and mental health professionals need to be attuned to the variety of forms that eating disorders can present. An appendix contains the study interview questions. (Contains 18 references.) (GCP) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document.