Eating Disorders and Eating Disorder Awareness

Eating disorders represent a significant and growing concern within the field of mental health, as highlighted by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V). The four most prevalent eating disorders—Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder (BED), and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)—are increasing, with some studies suggesting an "epidemic" status. Despite the expanding body of knowledge over the past decade, there remain critical gaps in understanding the multifaceted nature of these disorders. Current research has provided valuable insights into the biological, psychological, and socio-cultural dimensions of eating disorders, yet comprehensive interdisciplinary approaches are still needed to address the complexities and nuances of these conditions fully.

This Research Topic aims to explore and disseminate the latest findings on eating disorders through an interdisciplinary lens. The primary objectives include identifying and analyzing the causes and risk factors, understanding the socio-cultural and psychological influences, and examining the biological and genetic underpinnings of these disorders. Additionally, the collection seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of current diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions, as well as to investigate the epidemiology, physiological consequences, and potential prevention strategies. By addressing these questions, the Research Topic aims to contribute to a more holistic understanding of eating disorders and to inform better clinical practices and public health policies.

To gather further insights into the complexities of eating disorders, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Causes and risk factors.
• Socio-cultural factors.
• Psychological factors.
• Family factors through enmeshment and criticism.
• Peer influence.
• The impact of the media, by spreading unhealthy body stereotypes.
• Negative affect, low self-esteem, and body dissatisfaction.
• Biological and genetic bases.
• Brain functioning in eating disorders.
• Epidemiology, statistics, and mortality.
• Diagnostics.
• Physiological consequences of eating disorders.
• Psycho-therapeutic intervention.
• Progresses and challenges related to eating disorders.
• Prevention.
• Evolution.
• Adverse effects.
• Eating disorders as coping mechanisms.

Keywords: Eating Disorders, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARPID), Causes, Media, Psychology, Diagnostics, Prevention, Psycho-therapeutic Intervention

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.