Young children nowadays are living in a very superficial world where people are overly obsessed in having that perfect 10 body. Chubbiness results to being ridiculed by classmates and peers that leads to low self-esteem. As a result, more and more young children suffer from eating disorder.
Anorexia Nervosa is an eating and psychological disorder that goes beyond out-of-control dieting. It starts with dieting to lose weight, which later becomes a sign of mastery and control. The motivation to become thinner actually comes secondary only with regards to a person’s concerns regarding control and fears to her body.
On an average, about 95% of those affected by Anorexia are female, but males can still develop this disorder too. Although it usually starts during early adolescence, it is also seen in adults and young children.
Causes of Anorexia
To date, there are still no studies that determine the exact cause of Anorexia but some studies suggest that a genetic component may play an important role in determining a person’s susceptibility to anorexia. Researchers are trying to identify what particular gene triggers Anorexia.
Other studies on the other hand blame a dysfunction in the brain- the hypothalamus, as a contributing factor to the development of anorexia. While some also suggest that imbalances in neurotransmitter levels in the brain may occur in people that suffer from anorexia.
Signs and Symptoms
- Skipping meals or eating very little portion and avoiding “fattening” food
- Unusual weight loss/changes
- Excessive exercising, often in secret
- Avoid eating in public
- Thinks they are fat even though their underweight
Guiding Young Children
Parents play an important role in providing a healthy environment for their young children. Growing up in a nurturing surrounding and teaching young children to engage in various activities is important. This will help them develop self-esteem and be more active in school activities. Developing the strengths of young children plays an important role in ensuring that they will not feel that they don’t belong.
Parenting young children can be very hard especially with all the things that affect their state of mind. Open communication is the key in building a successful relationship with young children. This will help properly guide them with complicated issues such as changing body weights that affect their over all social life.
