What is the relationship between sexual abuse and anorexia nervosa?
People who have been sexually abused are more vulnerable to developing anorexia nervosa. Preoccupation with food and weight can move the focus away from the abuse and the accompanying painful feelings. Control over eating and weight may replace the lack of control experienced during abuse. Anorexia nervosa may also be a way to make one’s body less attractive to possible abusers.
