Why does body dysmorphia often lead to disordered eating or eating disorders?

• A. Body dysmorphia involves an unhealthy focus on the nutrition of food; trying to control nutrition too closely can result in disordered eating.
• B. Body dysmorphia involves an inability to lose weight effectively; trying to lose weight in that case can result in disordered eating.
• C. Body dysmorphia is defined as trying to lose an unhealthy amount of weight; unhealthy attempts to lose weight can result in disordered eating.
• D. Body dysmorphia involves an unhealthy focus on certain body flaws; attempts to correct those flaws can result in disordered eating.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of body dysmorphia: It is a mental health condition where an individual has an obsessive focus on perceived flaws in their appearance, which may not be noticeable to others.
2. Recognize the connection between body dysmorphia and disordered eating: The obsessive focus on correcting perceived flaws can lead individuals to adopt extreme dietary restrictions or unhealthy eating behaviors.
3. Analyze how attempts to control or change body appearance can manifest: This may include behaviors such as excessive calorie counting, avoiding certain food groups, or engaging in binge-purge cycles.
4. Consider the psychological impact: Body dysmorphia often involves anxiety and distorted self-image, which can exacerbate unhealthy eating patterns as individuals strive to 'fix' their perceived flaws.
5. Conclude that the unhealthy focus on body flaws and attempts to correct them are key factors that can lead to disordered eating or eating disorders.