Acculturation, which is best defined as the merging or the joining of one ethnicity with
another on a social level, is perceived as the main culprit for bulimia among Latinas
and other women of color. (3) (7) Other reported causes include: strict households,
socioeconomic status*, a lack of socialization (bonding) among peers, immigration
status, as well as an overall obsession with personal appearances most likely due to
outside, cultural influences. (3) Other studies claim bulimia is the result of a depressive
disorder or the replacing of hunger with the lack of love and attention one fails to
receive as a child from parents while growing up. (5) Perfectionist behaviors and
stressful events have also been known to promote the disorder within certain
individuals who are prone to the disease.(6) However, the influences of the media,
referred to as the ¡°toxic American culture¡± by one article, has been known to play a
major role in promoting overall mental disorders, which includes disturbed eating,
among women.(1) Above all, the most common trait existing among victims of eating
disorders is the apparent existence of low self esteem.(8)
* Based on some studies, socioeconomic status apparently has no real influence in promoting eating disorders among women.
