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Looking Glass Self In Eating Disorders: Breakdown Of Self In Women, Marion E. Keith

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Anorexia nervosa and bulimia are studied from the perspective of symbolic interactionist "self" theory, and a model is developed suggesting components in the process of the breakdown of the looking glass self. The process is based in characteristic views toward the self and others. These views include the primacy of appearance in self-appraisal, coupled with low self-esteem and negative views of the subject's body; conformist (oversocialized) attitudes toward achievement, roles, social groups, gender relations, families; and, a high degree of importance in the perceived negative judgements of others.

Significant objects in the individuals' lives hold negative meanings related to body …