NEDA TOOLKIT for Parents
Risk Factors for Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex conditions that can arise from a combination of long-standing behavioral, biological,
emotional, psychological, interpersonal, and social factors. Once started, however, they can create a self-
perpetuating cycle of physical and emotional destruction.
Although scientists are still investigating the factors that can contribute to the development of an eating disorder,
they have identified some risk factors for the development of an eating disorder.
Psychological Risk Factors
• •
• •
• •
Perfectionism Anxiety
Depression Difficulties regulating emotion
Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
Rigid thinking style (only one right way to do
things, etc.)
Sociocultural Risk Factors
Biological Risk Factors
• •
• •
• Having a close family member with an eating
disorder Family history of depression, anxiety, and/or
addiction Personal history of depression, anxiety, and/or
addiction Presence of food allergies that contribute to
picky or restrictive eating (e.g. celiac disease)
Presence of Type 1 Diabetes
• Cultural promotion of the thin ideal
• Size and weight prejudice
• Emphasis on dieting
• “Ideal bodies” include only a narrow range of
shapes and sizes
Page | 10