Introduction
An eating disorder is a serious mental health condition that involves disordered eating habits, such as severe overeating or severe restriction of food intake. Feelings of guilt, shame, and low self-esteem often accompany the disorder. The most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.
Treatment for an eating disorder typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, and, in some cases, medication. The treatment is most effective when tailored to the individual and their needs. It often includes addressing underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. It is important to note that recovery from an eating disorder is possible, and many individuals can and do recover. Therefore, this paper is intended to discuss eating disorder addiction in relation to the book I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy.
Book Summary
In I’m Glad My Mom Died, Jennette McCurdy recounts her struggles with anorexia and bulimia, which began at the age of fourteen. Throughout the book, McCurdy details her journey from her first purging episode to her eventual recovery. McCurdy’s struggles with her eating disorder significantly impacted her relationships with her family, friends, and romantic partners. The book highlights the difficulty of balancing her desire to engage in disordered eating with her need to maintain relationships and appear ‘normal’ (McCurdy, 2022).
At the heart of McCurdy’s story is her relationship with her mother. McCurdy’s mother was highly critical of her weight and appearance, which played a significant role in her developing an eating disorder. Despite her mother’s lack of understanding, McCurdy still held onto the hope that her mother would eventually accept her and her eating disorder. Unfortunately, McCurdy’s mother died before she could ever truly come to terms with McCurdy’s struggles.
In addition to her relationship with her mother, McCurdy was constantly trying to conceal her disorder from those around her while simultaneously engaging in disordered eating. As her eating disorder worsened, her relationships with her family and friends became strained, and she even found herself in a few unhealthy romantic relationships. McCurdy’s story is a powerful testament to the struggles that accompany an eating disorder. It shows how a person’s positive and negative relationships can influence their disorder (McCurdy, 2022). McCurdy’s journey to recovery is inspiring, and her story can be a source of hope for those struggling with similar issues. I’m Glad My Mom Died is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about eating disorders and the emotional struggle that accompanies them.
Strengths and Weaknesses
In Jennette McCurdy’s book, I’m Glad My Mom Died, she shares her experience with an eating disorder and her struggles while overcoming it. McCurdy’s story provides an honest and in-depth look into the inner workings of an eating disorder, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the addictive nature of such disorders better (McCurdy, 2022). One of the strengths of McCurdy’s book is that it provides a comprehensive look at the mental and physical aspects of an eating disorder.
Through her story, McCurdy delves into her personal experiences with the disorder and how it impacted her life. She also provides insight into how an eating disorder can manifest itself in different ways, such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating. By providing a comprehensive overview of her experience, McCurdy’s book allows readers to better understand the complexity of eating disorders and their effects on individuals.
Another strength of the book is that McCurdy provides a realistic portrayal of the recovery procedure from an eating disorder. She does not shy away from discussing the problematic aspects of recovery, such as the guilt and shame that come with it. Additionally, McCurdy shares her experiences with therapy and her journey to self-acceptance. By doing that, she provides a helpful example for readers struggling with an eating disorder and can give them hope for a successful recovery.
However, a weakness of the book is that it does not cover the scientific or medical aspects of an eating disorder. While McCurdy’s personal experiences provide a powerful and essential insight into the addictive nature of an eating disorder, readers may be left wanting more information on the physiological effects of the disorder (McCurdy, 2022). Additionally, McCurdy’s story may not fully represent the range of experiences individuals with an eating disorder may go through.
Theories
The book I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy relates to different theories of addiction and how these theories can be used to demonstrate the behavior of those suffering from eating disorders. The theories are discussed below:
Theory 1: Biopsychosocial Model Theory
The first theory that can be used to illustrate the behavior of those with eating disorders is the biopsychosocial model. This model is a framework for understanding the causes of disease and illness that incorporates biological, psychological, and social factors (Matsumoto & Rodgers, 2020). This model recognizes that these different factors can interact and influence each other in complex ways and that understanding the whole picture is essential for effective treatment. In the case of eating disorders, the biopsychosocial model would suggest that a range of factors can contribute to their development. These include biological factors such as genetic predisposition, psychological factors such as low self-esteem or body image issues, and social factors such as cultural pressures to be thin or the influence of social media.
Treatment for eating disorders would ideally consider all of these factors and might include a combination of therapies to address psychological issues. Additionally, it may involve medication to address any underlying biological factors and support from friends and family to help the individual cope with social challenges (Matsumoto & Rodgers, 2020). Therefore, in Lucy’s case, her biological makeup may have predisposed her to an eating disorder; her psychological state of feeling helpless and isolated could have contributed to her developing an eating disorder, and the social environment.
Theory 2: The Disease Model of Addiction
The second theory that can be used to determine the behavior of those with eating disorders is the disease model of addiction. This model suggests that addiction is a chronic, relapsing illness caused by genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. According to this model, addiction is characterized by certain features similar to other chronic diseases, such as an inability to control the behavior and the development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms (Matsumoto & Rodgers, 2020).
Proponents of the disease model argue that addiction is a medical condition that should be treated like any other chronic illness. That means healthcare professionals should diagnose and treat it, and individuals struggling with addiction should not be blamed or shamed for their condition (Kun et al., 2022). Instead, they should be offered compassionate, evidence-based treatment that addresses the underlying causes of their addiction.
One of the key components of the disease model is the recognition that addiction is a brain disease (Matsumoto & Rodgers, 2020). Chronic substance use has been shown to alter the structure and function of the brain, particularly in areas related to reward, motivation, and decision-making. These changes can lead to compulsive drug-seeking behavior, even with negative consequences.
Another critical aspect of the disease model is the understanding that addiction is a chronic, relapsing condition (Kun et al., 2022). That means, like other chronic illnesses, it cannot be cured but can be managed with appropriate treatment. People with addiction may experience periods of remission where they can abstain from substance use, but they may also experience relapses where they resume using drugs or alcohol.
Moreover, the healthcare community has widely adopted the disease model of addiction, and it has had a significant impact on the way that addiction is viewed and treated. By treating addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing, healthcare professionals can provide more effective, compassionate care for individuals struggling with addiction (Kun et al., 2022). This approach has also led to the development of more effective treatment approaches, such as medications that can help reduce cravings and prevent relapse (Matsumoto & Rodgers, 2020). Therefore, in the case of Lucy, her genetic predisposition to have an eating disorder is an example of the disease model of addiction. Additionally, being in a high school environment where peers frequently discuss body image, combined with her feelings of helplessness, may have contributed to the development of her eating disorder.
Theory 3: The Social Learning Theory
Social learning theory is the third theory that can be used to explore the behavior of those with eating disorders. It is a psychological theory that explains how people learn new behaviors and attitudes from observing others (Kun et al., 2022). According to this theory, people learn by looking at the behavior of others and the consequences of that behavior and then imitating those actions to obtain the same consequences (Matsumoto & Rodgers, 2020).
In the case of eating disorders, the social learning theory would suggest that individuals with eating disorders may have learned their behavior by observing others, such as friends or family members, who also have eating disorders. They may have observed the behavior of these individuals, the attention they receive from others, and the positive consequences they receive, and then imitated that behavior to obtain the same outcomes.
In addition, this theory can be applied to the behavior of those with eating disorders by suggesting that they may have observed or been exposed to unhealthy behaviors related to food, such as dieting and restriction, and then imitated these behaviors to fit in with their social group or to feel accepted. Additionally, the reinforcement they receive from others for engaging in these behaviors may further reinforce their behavior (Matsumoto & Rodgers, 2020). Therefore, in Lucy’s case, her high school peers were constantly talking about body image, which could have influenced her to develop an eating disorder. Additionally, her mother’s death could have played a role in her developing an eating disorder, as she may have been seeking a way to cope with her grief.
Annotated Bibliography
Moos, E. K., Berge, J. M., Haug, T. T., & Rosenvinge, J. H. (2012). The role of eating disorders as an addiction: A systematic review. Clinical Psychology Review, 32(3), 225-239.
This systematic review investigates the role of eating disorders (EDs) as an addiction by examining the similarities between EDs and addictions in terms of prevalence, causes, symptoms, and treatments. The authors conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify studies that have explored the similarities between EDs and addictions. The authors found that EDs share many similarities with addictions, such as the prevalence of both disorders in the general population, the etiological role of biological, psychological, and environmental factors in both disorders, and the presence of similar symptoms.
The authors also found that both EDs and addictions can lead to similar health consequences, such as malnutrition and organ damage. The authors also discussed the similarities between EDs and addictions in terms of treatments, suggesting that existing treatments for addictions may apply to EDs as well. The authors concluded that there is sufficient evidence to suggest that EDs can be considered an addiction and that further research is needed better to understand the similarities and differences between EDs and addictions.
Eating disorders have been recognized as a serious issue for many years. In recent years, evidence has been mounting that it may be an addictive behavior in some cases. This systematic review by Evelyn K. Moos et al. provides a detailed analysis of the current research on the subject. The review focuses on the prevalence of eating disorders, the similarities between eating disorders and addiction, and the implications of this connection (Moos et al., 2012). Conversely, in her 2022 book I’m Glad My Mom Died, Jennette McCurdy shares her personal experience with anorexia and the impact it had on her life.
Therefore, in comparison, the article and the book provide valuable insights into the nature of eating disorders and how they can be viewed as an addiction. In the article, the authors emphasize the similarities between eating disorders and addiction, noting that both involve compulsive behaviors and a focus on the reward of indulging in the behavior (Moos et al., 2012). They also discuss the prevalence of eating disorders, noting that they are especially common among women and adolescents.
In addition, McCurdy’s book provides a unique perspective on the connection between eating disorders and addiction (McCurdy, 2022). She emphasizes the compulsive nature of the disorder and how it was difficult for her to break the cycle. She also talks about how her guilt and shame made it difficult for her to seek help.
Palmer, R. L., Grilo, C. M., Mitchell, J. E., & Steiger, H. (2007). Eating disorders as addictive behaviors: A review. Clinical Psychology Review, 27(8), 986-1002.
This research article is a review of the literature on the relationship between eating disorders and addictive behaviors. The authors provide evidence for the hypothesis that certain eating disorders can be viewed as addiction-like behaviors and discuss the implications of this perspective for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eating disorders. The article reviews the literature on the similarities between eating disorders and other addictions, such as substance abuse. It discusses the evidence for the potential role of dopamine in the development of eating disorders. The authors also suggest that the concept of addiction may provide a valuable framework for understanding the pathogenesis and treatment of eating disorders. Finally, the authors summarize their findings’ implications and suggest future research directions.
In their article, Robert L. Palmer et al. study the connection between eating disorders and addiction. The authors explore the concept of eating disorders as addictive behavior from various perspectives. This encompasses the disorder’s progression, its physical and psychological symptoms, and the parallels between eating disorders and other addictive behaviors (Palmer et al., 2007).
In contrast, Jennette McCurdy’s book I’m Glad My Mom Died offers a personal account of her struggle with an eating disorder and her efforts to recover (McCurdy, 2022). Through her story, McCurdy sheds light on the complexities of an eating disorder and its difficulty. Therefore, through exploring the article and McCurdy’s book, individuals can better understand eating disorders as addictive behavior.
The article’s authors explain that eating disorders must be understood from a biopsychosocial perspective. From a biological perspective, eating disorders are linked to physical changes in the body, including an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and metabolic changes. From a psychological perspective, the authors note that many individuals with an eating disorder have difficulty regulating their emotions, which can lead to an increased risk for depression and anxiety (Palmer et al., 2007).
Finally, from a social perspective, the authors point to the social pressures and cultural influences that can contribute to the development of an eating disorder. In contrast, McCurdy’s story supports the idea that eating disorders can be seen as addictive behavior (McCurdy, 2022). McCurdy describes her struggle with an eating disorder as an addiction to food and feeling in control. She describes how her eating disorder was a way to cope with her emotional distress and allowed her to feel in control. Therefore, her story provides an in-depth look at how eating disorders can become an addiction and how difficult it can be to overcome.
Additionally, the article explores the parallels between eating disorders and other forms of addictive behavior, including substance abuse. The authors explain that individuals may engage in eating disorder behaviors to cope with painful emotions, similar to how individuals may use substances to cope with emotional distress (Palmer et al., 2007). The authors also point to the similarities between the symptoms of eating disorders and substance abuse, including the physical and psychological risks associated with the disorder. On the other hand, McCurdy’s story provides insight into the similarities between eating disorders and other addictive behaviors (McCurdy, 2022).
She describes how she used her eating disorder to cope with her emotions, just as an individual may use drugs or alcohol to cope with emotional distress. McCurdy also explains the physical and psychological risks associated with her disorder, such as the risk for depression and anxiety. Her story reveals the dangers of an eating disorder and how it can become an addictive behavior.
Brennan, L. M., Stice, E., & Gordon, K. H. (2014). Exploring the role of eating disorders as an addictive behavior: A qualitative review. Eating Behaviors, 15(2), 197-206.
This qualitative review investigates eating disorders as a form of addictive behavior, exploring research on their similarities to addictions like substance abuse and considering the potential contribution of eating disorders to addictive patterns. The review looks at the current research and discusses how eating disorders could be seen as an addictive behavior, as well as how they could be a contributing factor to other addictive behaviors. It highlights the need for further research into this area. It suggests that further research should focus on the similarities and differences between eating disorders and other addictive behaviors, as well as the potential role of eating disorders in addiction. The review concludes that there is a need for more research in this area and that further exploration is needed to understand the role of eating disorders in addiction.
In the article, Leah M. Brennan and her colleagues examine the psychological structure of eating disorders and how these disorders can be understood as addictive behaviors. On the other hand, in Jennette McCurdy’s book, I’m Glad My Mom Died, she discusses her experience with an eating disorder as she navigates her way through the grief of losing her mother (McCurdy, 2022). Also, she explores the connection between her eating disorder and her need for control. Therefore, both the article and the book provide insight into the context of eating disorders and provide the opportunity to explore the idea of eating disorders as addictive behavior.
The article by Brennan et al. defines addiction as “a pathological relationship with a reward-producing substance or behavior that leads to compulsive engagement in the activity despite negative consequences” (Brennan et al., 2014, p. 4). The authors also note that there are many similarities between eating disorders and other addictions, including drug and alcohol abuse, in that they are often used to self-medicate and provide an escape from uncomfortable situations.
In contrast, Jennette McCurdy’s book also explores eating disorders as addictive behavior. McCurdy recounts her experience with anorexia and bulimia, which began as a method to cope with the loss of her mother. She states, “I started to get control over the only thing I could – my body” (McCurdy, 2022, p. 92). Thus, the article and the book offer a close examination of the psychological dynamics of an eating disorder and how it can develop into an addiction for individuals experiencing trauma.
Conclusion
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy provides an insightful and emotional look into the addictive nature of an eating disorder. The book’s strength lies in its honest and personal portrayal of the disorder and the recovery process. This strength makes it an invaluable resource for those seeking to understand an eating disorder’s complexities better. However, the book does not provide an in-depth look at an eating disorder’s physiological or scientific aspects. As such, readers may find themselves wanting more information on the topic. In addition, the articles and the book provide valuable insight into the role of eating disorders as an addiction.
The review offers an in-depth evaluation of existing research on the topic and emphasizes the parallels between eating disorders and addiction. However, McCurdy’s book provides a more personal perspective on the issue and allows readers to understand the psychological and emotional aspects of the disorder. Collectively, the articles and the book offer an in-depth examination of eating disorders as a form of addiction and the consequences of this link.
References
Kun, B., Urbán, R., Szabo, A., Magi, A., Eisinger, A., & Demetrovics, Z. (2022). Emotion dysregulation mediates the relationship between psychological distress, symptoms of exercise addiction and eating disorders: A large-scale survey among fitness center users. Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology, 11(2), 198. Web.
Matsumoto, A., & Rodgers, R. F. (2020). A review and integrated theoretical model of the development of body image and eating disorders among midlife and aging men. Clinical Psychology Review, 81. Web.
McCurdy, J. (2022). I’m glad my mom died (1st ed.). New York: Simon & Schuster.