Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa

Comparing and Contrasting

Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa

Written by: Tina Bolon

Course: Com/155

November 2, 2013

Instructor: Phyllis Vigue

Comparing and Contrasting

Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa

We often see disturbing broadcast about people suffering from eating disorders. This essay will compare and contrast two eating disorders Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa.

”Going to extremes is what sets eating disorders apart from the occasional binge or even yo-yo dieting." (Suszynski, 2010) Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa are two of the most life-threatening eating disorders millions of men and woman have developed. Despite these two having so many similarities, it is important to understand that there are differences which make them separate entities. Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa can be overlooked by some as the same disorder because of their similar characteristics.

Both Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa are psychiatric disorders classified by severe disturbances in one’s eating behaviors and normally have co-existing psychological illnesses. People suffering from both disorders are normally emotionally stressed, depressed, have low self-esteem, can suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder, suffer from denial and are controlled by fear of gaining weight. Some people suffering with Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa may also exhibit other compulsive or suicidal behaviors. An eating disorder is a response to having low self-esteem. It is also a means of dealing with the stresses of life. An eating disorder is similar to other types of addictions including alcoholism, drug addiction and self-mutilation. These addictions are survival skills sometimes found in people also suffering with an eating disorder.

At the core of Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa is the heightening fear of becoming overweight. Both eating disorders have an...