Abstract
A crucial time for an individual’s development is during adolescence. During this developmental stage, the media, social influences, and cultural pressures contribute to a teenager’s body dissatisfaction and disordered eating habits. Nearly 22% of adolescents engage in unhealthy weight-loss behaviors such as skipping meals, fad diets, excessive exercise, and dangerous purging practices due to experiencing weight and body dissatisfaction (Whyte & Findlay, 2004). Other factors such as low self-esteem, peer pressure, and the desire for increased social status have been known to exacerbate these behaviors. Dieting practices intensify these risks and increase the likelihood of developing nutritional deficiencies and eating disorders. Disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and orthorexia exhibit perfectionistic tendencies, misguided nutritional beliefs, and can cause serious physical and psychological harm to those who engage in self-regulated dieting practices. Counselors play an essential role in addressing an individual’s disorders eating habits and physical or psychological issues by promoting protective factors such as nutritional education, family connectedness, and fostering positive role models. A multidisciplinary approach may include registered dietitians or nutritionists, especially when counseling athletes. Other interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and psychoeducation assist in promoting a positive body image and a healthy relationship with food. Through a compassionate and supportive relationship, counselors can help adolescents navigate the challenges they face with their body image and encourage healthy nutritional well-being to eliminate the physical and physiological risks associated with dieting and eating disorders.
Date of Award
Fall 12-11-2024
Document Type
Capstone Paper
Degree Name
Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Department
Counselor Education
First Advisor
Dr. Dawnette Cigrand
Location
Winona, Minnesota
Recommended Citation
Sticha, Josephine, "Adolescent Dieting and Eating Disorders: Considerations for Counselors" (2024). Counselor Education Capstones. 192.
https://openriver.winona.edu/counseloreducationcapstones/192
