Research has shown that boys are just as susceptible as girls to developing an eating disorder. The key difference is the influences that may or may not trigger the onset, and the manifestation of the disorders in the different genders. While girls often feel pressure to conform to society’s unrealistic expectations of being thin, boys often feel the pressure to increase muscle mass and appear lean, but defined.
What causes eating disorders in boys?
No one thing causes an eating disorder to manifest in the life of a male –– as with all mental health conditions, there are multiple, varying factors that contribute to its development. Factors like environment, personal history, mental wellness and even genetics play a role in determining whether or not a boy is going to develop an eating disorder.
In order to help increase awareness and raise the volume on the conversation of eating disorders among men, it’s crucial to understand the potential causes of eating disorders.
Pressure from culture and society
Similar to women, men are subjected to societal pressures regarding body image. The idealized male body, often portrayed as muscular and lean in media and advertising, can contribute to body dissatisfaction. The more a boy is around influences and takes in content that promotes the idea, the more likely he is to succumb to the pressure.
Being an athlete
Men involved in sports emphasizing weight, size or appearance, including wrestling, bodybuilding, cheer, dance and/or gymnastics, may develop eating disorders as they strive to meet specific body standards or weight classes. While a healthy, athletic body that meets the needs of the sport is unproblematic, forcing one’s body to change due to a sport, eating in a way that is highly restrictive or punishing oneself with exercise is an issue.
Pre-existing and/or unaddressed mental health concerns
Men experiencing depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies may develop eating disorders as a way to exert control over at least one aspect of their life, or as a coping mechanism. Those with undiagnosed mental health concerns are at an even greater risk as they may struggle to maintain emotional regulation and find themselves coping in unhealthy ways.
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
Some men may suffer from body dysmorphic disorder, where they obsess over perceived flaws in their appearance, which can lead to unhealthy eating and exercise habits. BDD often needs specialized treatment to help reframe negative thinking patterns and promote a healthy state of mind and acceptance of one’s body.
Genes
Research proves that genes do play a role in predisposing some men more than others to eating disorders, especially if their family has a history of eating disorders or other mental health issues.
History of trauma or abuse
Past experiences of trauma or abuse, including physical, emotional or sexual abuse, may contribute to the development of eating disorders in men. They may use food and/or exercise as a means of feeling control in an out-of-control situation or as a way to cope with the emotional struggles they are undergoing.
Peer pressure, comparison and the environment
Particularly in adolescence, peer pressure and the desire to fit in can lead to the development of eating disorders, as can environments where appearance is heavily emphasized. Comparison is also a huge factor as young boys may find themselves viewing the appearances of men on social media as the standard — they then change their own habits and body in the hopes of mirroring those they see online.
LGBTQ+ youth
Men who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community may face unique pressures related to body image, which can increase their risk of developing eating disorders. According to the National Eating Disorder Association:
- “LGBT adults and adolescents experience greater incidence of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts.
- “Nearly nine in ten (87%) LGBTQ youth reported being dissatisfied with their body.
- “Members of the LGBTQ+ community are at greater risk for food insecurity, eating disorders, and depression, particularly those who identify as trans males.”
Substance abuse
Some men with eating disorders may also struggle with substance abuse, as they might use drugs or alcohol to suppress appetite or cope with emotional distress as related to struggling with the taboos and stereotypes of eating disorders.
Perfectionism and high expectations
Men who are perfectionists or who have been raised with high expectations regarding performance and appearance may be more prone to developing eating disorders.
Is help available?
Yes, always!
For men and boys who battle eating disorders, kind, compassionate and personalized care is available from many different treatment centers that focus on eating disorder recovery. The best programs offer a holistic, mind/body approach that includes the following:
- Medical evaluation and monitoring;
- Nutritional counseling;
- Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family-based therapy or individual therapy;
- Support groups to foster recovery among peers and like-minded individuals;
- Education and skill building to help with stress management, resilience and healthier coping skills;
- Inpatient or residential treatment;
- Holistic therapies including yoga, tai chi, meditation, equine therapy and nature therapy.
For more information on eating disorder treatment, or to get in touch with someone who can help today, reach out to Seeds of Hope by calling (610) 679-8262 or fill out an online contact form.
