Bulimia: A new perspective

The incidence of bulimia is on the rise, while its knowledge base is presently limited. The author attempts to contribute to our knowledge by sharing clinical case material which highlights characteristics of the disorder. Bulimia has been connected with anorexia nervosa as well as being considered a separate diagnostic category. Such differences of opinion reflect the newness of the knowledge and account for the variation of prognostic judgments about the disorder. Etiology of the disorder is still under investigation by researchers. Possible etiological factors are suggested. The cluster of these psychosocial factors in the patient's history include reinforcement at an early age by a parent for self care, other directedness, and the overevaluation of food in the family.