Most of the common known risk factors for eating disorders apply to males and females (e.g. perfectionism, bullying, dieting, trauma, childhood obesity). Sociocultural influences play a role in the development of eating disorders and males are exposed to unique cultural messages that can increase their vulnerability towards developing an eating disorder. These include:
Males should only have one body type - the ideal physical body shape for men is now more prescribed with lean, muscular body types in fashion to the exclusion of other male body typesYou are what you look like - males are more at risk if they conflate having a 'perfect body' with success in other areas such as dating, getting a good job, and social desirabilityMales need to be in control — males can be expected to 'take charge' and be 'in control'. When coping with particular issues beyond their control, males can sometimes displace these anxieties onto their bodies, manifesting in control over the body through excessive exercise and dietingEating disorders and other mental illnesses are not masculine — males can be expected to conceal personality traits and vulnerabilities that have traditionally been associated with females. A desire not to appear weak or vulnerable has led to a stigma around mental illness that has delayed treatment and support for many males with eating disorders. This stigma has been further exacerbated by the popular misconception that eating disorders are a 'female's disease'.These negative cultural messages do not reflect the realities of mental and physical health in males.
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Eating Disorders
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