Digital Commons Network^™

Bias Towards Men And Minority Patients With Eating Disorders, Adriana Cook

COLA Research and Creativity Conference

There are prevalent disparities among men and minority patients in the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders based on certain stereotypes. These stereotypes are often recognized as affecting only thin, Caucasian women. According to The National Eating Disorder Association, this specific stereotype leads to health disparities and stigma among men, average and overweight individuals, and racial minorities. Consequently, these individuals often feel stigmatized for not fitting the stereotype and they are less likely to undergo treatment (Becker et al., 2003). When compared to men, women are almost 1.5 times more likely to get full recommended treatment (Sonneville & Lipson, 2018). …