Pro-Anorexia Website Harm

Authors

Jane C. Silva Ramirez, California State University San BernardinoFollow

Keywords

eating disorder (ED), pro-ana, pro-eating disorder (pro-ED), lifestyle, community, pro-recovery

Abstract

This paper explores the nature of websites that glorify eating disorders, or EDs. These websites are often referred to as “pro-ED” (pro-eating disorder), “pro-ana” (pro-anorexia), or “pro-mia” (pro-bulimia). For the purpose of this paper, only pro-ED, pro-ana, and pro-recovery website research were the focus. Scholarly articles found in California State University San Bernardino’s database were used to distinguish the different ways that these websites help and cause harm to individuals. Articles about pro-ED and pro-ana websites helped prove harmful to individuals, claiming the disorder as a “lifestyle”. It also showed the support these communities feel when interacting through blogs, comments, and chat rooms. Articles on pro-recovery websites showed small similarities with pro-ana and pro-ED websites, however proved to be more beneficial to individuals viewing this material. E-health communities such as “Proud2BMe” have also shown to improve empowerment in learning about their disorder and a more positive outlook on their future.

Author Statement

Jane Silva Ramirez is a first-year student in the Master’s for Counseling and Guidance (M.S. in Counseling and Guidance) and Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential program at California State University San Bernardino (CSUSB). Currently she works with students from 9th-12th grade at an after school program at San Gorgonio High School.

Recommended Citation

Silva Ramirez, Jane C. (2019) "Pro-Anorexia Website Harm," Journal of Critical Issues in Educational Practice: Vol. 9: No. 1, Article 5.
Available at: https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/wie/vol9/iss1/5