During which life stage do eating disorders most commonly begin?

Eating disorders most commonly begin during adolescence due to several factors that make this life stage particularly vulnerable for individuals. During adolescence, individuals undergo significant physical, emotional, and social changes. The pressure to conform to societal standards of body image becomes heightened, often leading to unhealthy behaviors related to food and body image.

This period is characterized by the search for identity and acceptance among peers, which can exacerbate feelings about self-worth that are often linked to physical appearance. Additionally, the onset of puberty causes changes in body shape and size, which can trigger anxiety and dissatisfaction with one's body. The combination of peer influence, increasing autonomy, and the desire to fit in can lead many adolescents to develop unhealthy eating behaviors.

While eating disorders can potentially start in childhood or may persist into adulthood and late adulthood, the peak of onset is predominantly seen in adolescence. Understanding the factors around this age can help in the prevention and treatment of eating disorders in this vulnerable population.