The exact cause of eating disorders is unknown.  However, there are several factors that are believed to cause these diseases.  Eating disorders are thought to be the result of physical, psychological, and social stress.  In addition, cultural influences such as television, movies, and magazines suggest that people need to be thin in order to be beautiful.  Studies also suggest that genetic influences and hormones may play a role in causing eating disorders.
    Eating disorders are most often about much more than food.  People with eating disorders often compensate for their emotional distress through food and control of food.  They use dieting, bingeing, and purging as a way to gain control of their life and cope with painful emotions.