The Body Betrayed: A Deeper Understanding of Women, Eating Disorders, and Treatment

This sensitive look at the complex causes and treatments of eating disorders, written by a leading authority interlaces clearly written clinical discussion with personal stories about individuals who have valiantly engaged in recovery. Topics include: body image, sexual abuse, feminism, athletes, medical complications, nutrition, obesity, chemical dependency, and more.

Female eating disorders are as complicated and multifaceted as females themselves. Fortunately, Kathryn J. Zerbe, a pioneer in the field of eating disorders, does not try to present one cause or one cure. The Body Betrayed delves into the full spectrum of factors contributing to eating disorders, such as family dynamics, cultural messages, nutrition, sexual abuse, and links with chemical dependency. Zerbe's discussion of treatment is equally even-handed: she addresses the successes of psychotherapy as well as the use of antidepressants. The compassionate wisdom infused throughout offers solace as well as the facts. As an all-inclusive primer, The Body Betrayed is an important resource for eating-disorder patients and their families.