Anorexia Nervosa

Currently, the standard set by the fashion industry is for the models to be thin. For some people, attaining that standard isn’t possible without adopting unhealthy dietary habits. This does not only affect those who want to be models, but also those who look upon models as a reference when it comes to body weight and shape.

In America, the images of ultra-thin actresses and models have been blamed for causing eating disorders, especially among teenagers. This is because many people try to starve so they can attain body figures similar to those of models.

Unfortunately, the images of skinny people in television, magazines, and websites have been used as the standard that determines how people should dress, live, and look.

When you are used to looking at these images, you may become tempted to think that is how the opposite sex wants you to look and you will strive to achieve that body shape. This is because the fashion industry influences what you think is beautiful. Attempting to attain an unrealistic body shape and size, however, can be torturous and stressful.

Although there is no conclusive study that has managed to connect eating disorders and thin model images, some believe that the ultra-thin models' bodies contribute to warped body image in society today.

Should we blame thin models for eating disorders? Definitely not. Although they may trigger an eating disorder or are a factor in maintaining it, they are not its primary cause.

Some people have a predisposition for eating disorder and if they spend a lot of their time looking at fashion magazines, videos, and the like, it may trigger a feeling in them that their bodies are inferior. This may make them turn to bad eating behaviors like over-eating or under-eating.

It is no wonder countries like France, Israel, Spain, and Italy have approved legislation to crack down on underweight models in the modeling industry. However, each person is responsible for his/her eating habits to ensure a healthy lifestyle.