Dancers are easily susceptible to anorexia (RE-UPLOAD)
Dancing is an art form which requires physical and mental strength, grace, and discipline. Unfortunately, it also places a great emphasis on the need for dancers to be physically thin, which can lead to anorexia. This paper will discuss why dancers are more vulnerable to developing anorexia, how it manifests itself, and how it can be prevented. As a whole, this paper will demonstrate why a better understanding of anorexia as it relates to dancers is necessary to ensure that members of the dance community are kept safe.Anorexia nervosa spectrum is a term used to describe similar behaviors associated with eating disorders. These behaviors include extreme thinness and obsessive-compulsive eating. Symptoms of this type of disorder can range from severe diet restriction to relentless exercise and extreme body distortion (Yager and Devlin, 2018). While studies have indicated that dancers are especially at risk for anorexia nervosa, it is important to point out that not all dancers meet the criteria given in the definition of anorexia nervosa spectrum (Yager and Devlin, 2018). The spectrum of anorexia nervosa covers a wide range of behaviors, so it is essential to understand the individual person and their specific patterns of behavior and health risks in order to provide appropriate care.
Anorexia nervosa spectrum disorders (AN-Spectrum) is a “umbrella term,” used to describe a cluster of eating disorders that have many similar, underlying symptoms (Foster & Heimberg, 2015). For example, extreme thinness, distorted body image and obsessive-compulsive eating behaviors all play into an anorexia nervosa spectrum disorder. Although many dancers fit into this spectrum due to intense pressure to maintain a slim physique, it is important to note that not all dancers suffer from an AN-Spectrum disorder, and it is not exclusive to the dance world. AN-Spectrum disorders are complex, and require proper diagnosis and treatment (Foster & Heimberg, 2015).
Anorexia nervosa is a severe mental disorder characterized by an irrational fear of being overweight and an obsessive need to control one's body weight. Though any individual can develop anorexia, dancers are especially at risk due to their ambition to be as thin and light as possible. Dancers face a variety of challenges when it comes to dieting, which can lead to anorexia. Unhealthy dieting practices, weight management expectations, and damaging feedback from instructors are all factors that can push someone into an anorexic state. It is important for dancers to recognize the signs of anorexia and reach out to a mental health specialist for help and support (American Psychological Association). Being aware of the risk factors and possible consequences of anorectic behavior can help individuals remain safe and healthy.
Dancers are expected to maintain a certain body type, often leading many to believe that they are more prone to developing anorexia than their non-dancing counterparts. However, research has found that "the perception of excessive thinness does not always lead to clinical diagnosis or even subclinical symptoms" of anorexia (Ávila et al. 536). Ultimately, dancers do not necessarily have a greater chance of developing anorexia than non-dancers; it is largely determined by individual factors and the environment that they are in. Therefore, it is important to recognize that anorexia is not simply endemic to a group of people, but can affect any individual.
Ávila, Rebeca, et al. “Overview of Anorexia in Elite Dancers.” International Journal of Sport Psychology, vol. 45, no. 4, 2014, pp. 523–539.
Dancing requires tremendous physical exertion and discipline, making it easy for dancers to become susceptible to anorexia. Eating disorders and anorexia can be both physical and psychological illnesses, with an underlying fear of getting fat and a negative view of self-image. It is important to recognize the warning signs and reach out for help from a mental health professional if a dancer may be struggling with anorexia or another eating disorder. Promoting positive body image and healthy habits for dancers is essential for helping them to stay physically and mentally healthy.
American Psychological Association. “Anorexia Nervosa.” Kidsource, 1998, http://www.kidsource.com/kidsource/content2/anorexia.html.
Foster, Gary D., and Carlene E. Heimberg. “Eating Disorder not Otherwise Specified: Psychometric Support for the Addition to Axis I of the DSM-IV.” American Journal of Psychiatry, vol. 152, no. 11, 1995, pp. 1630–1638.
Yager, Joel, and Margo R. Devlin. “Anorexia Nervosa.” The Lancet, vol. 371, no. 9628, 2008, pp. 573–581.
