Which group of individuals is more prone to developing anorexia nervosa compared to others?

Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder often influenced by several factors, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural aspects. Teenage girls are generally considered the group at the highest risk for developing anorexia nervosa. This vulnerability can be largely attributed to societal pressures regarding body image and the emphasis on thinness as an ideal. Teenage girls often face intense scrutiny regarding their appearance, which can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and contribute to unhealthy dieting behaviors.

While other groups, such as young adults in creative arts and high school athletes, can also be at risk due to perfectionism or competition in performance and appearance, research shows that the prevalence of anorexia nervosa is notably higher among teenage girls. The combination of developmental factors, peer influences, and societal expectations makes this group particularly susceptible to the disorder.

In contrast, while college-age males are experiencing a surge in eating disorders, the overall rates in males are significantly lower than in females, particularly teenage girls. Thus, the demographic of teenage girls most distinctly correlates with a higher incidence of anorexia nervosa.