NursingSprint

➤ Anorexia nervosa involves an intense fear of weight gain and distorted body image, where the adolescent’s self-worth is tied to perceived thinness. This profound negative self-concept drives extreme caloric restriction resulting in a “skeletal” appearance.

➤ Patients often engage in compensatory exercise and ritualistic eating patterns as maladaptive coping strategies reflecting deep-seated self-esteem issues. These behaviors distinguish anorexia nervosa from fad dieting and occasional dietary experimentation.

➤ The severe emaciation in anorexia nervosa arises from prolonged malnutrition and metabolic adaptation, causing significant muscle wasting and subcutaneous fat loss. This physical presentation underscores the connection between psychological distress and nutritional status.

➤ Unlike obesity or fast-food consumption, which are more environmental or lifestyle-based, anorexia nervosa is a clinical disorder characterized by persistent self-concept distortion and the pursuit of thinness through disordered eating. Early recognition requires addressing both nutritional rehabilitation and psychological support.