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Although food has never been more plentiful in developed countries, an apparently increasing number of young people don't want to eat, or want to get rid of what they've eaten as quickly as possible. Eating disorders now have one of the highest mortality rates of all psychiatric conditions.

We begin with some brief case studies of anorectics and establish what psychologists mean by an eating disorder. This leads into exploring the main causes of eating disorders which are located in three self-standing sections.

1: A Biological Basis?

This section explains the possible underlying biological bases of eating disorders, the evidence for them and some of the treatments if offers. Some of the insights and limits of biological approaches are considered.

2: Thin = Good

This section focuses on socio-cultural explanations and learning theory. It uses a series of stark images and personal experiences to document the pressures on young people, especially young women, to lose weight. But why is it that only some people suffer from eating disorders?

3: Happy Families?

Starting with the question raised at the end of the previous section, the final part examines some of the explanations that locate the origins of eating disorders within 'dysfunctional' families. We conclude by looking at some of the treatments for eating disorders.