Main description:

An indispensable resource for readers interested in eating disorders, this book summarizes their history in human civilization, assesses the current status of eating disorders in American society, and describes efforts for establishing effective prevention and treatment programs.

Although eating disorders have existed for centuries, considerable controversy remains as to the basic cause or causes of these disorders and their genetic, biological, and/or psychological factors. Eating Disorders in America: A Reference Handbook investigates these disorders, priming readers on the causes, symptoms, controversies, and treatments available. The two opening chapters of the book provide general background and a historical review of the existence of eating disorders in society. The remaining chapters provide resources the reader can use for further research, such as an extensive annotated bibliography, a glossary, and a chronology.

This book differs from others on the topic in that it provides both an expository section that provides information as well as a set of resources for further research. The book also contains a "perspectives" chapter in which writers describe and discuss their personal views on the subject of eating disorders. Together with the author's expertise, these views add to the value of this book as a resource for eating disorder research.

Provides an introduction to the history of eating disorders in society, a topic less well known and discussed than others in the social sciences

Offers comprehensive discussion of the whole range of eating disorders, rather than the two most commonly covered (bulimia and anorexia), along with a review of the risk factors, causes, prevention, and treatment of each

Outlines the ongoing debate concerning the possible causes of eating disorders and how they guide prevention and treatment

Includes a chapter on individual perspectives about specific cases of, experiences with, and attitudes toward eating disorders in today's world