Disordered Eating Issues in Active Children and Adolescence

Abstract

The development of a child’s body image is strongly influenced by peers, school, family, society, and the media. While it is important for children to learn healthy eating habits and attitudes toward physical activity early in life, it is also essential that children learn to value themselves and develop a strong self-esteem. Without such positive influences, children and adolescents may develop disordered eating habits, which include the use of diet pills, laxatives, and excessive exercise. These disordered eating habits may manifest themselves as clinical eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia. It is of great importance that children receive support and positive influences from family, peers, and school to develop a healthy self-image and prevent the formation of disordered eating habits and eating disorders.