Definition Of Anorexia (Clinical) - DSM-IV vs DSM V
What Will Be The New Anorexia Definition?

The definition of anorexia according to current clinical literature, involves refusal to maintain health weight range, and body image distortion. Obviously, there is a strong correlation between eating disorders and body image. These are typically among the many warning signs of anorexia. However, the definition of anorexia nervosa might be changing in the upcoming DSM V.

The Diagnostic And Statistical Manual (or DSM-IV) - is a huge encyclopedia-type book that physicians and/or mental health workers use to help diagnose various mental disorders.

In a nutshell, it categorizes the anorexia symptoms and behaviors that a patient experiences, and from there the doctor(s) proceed with appropriate treatments.

The basic (DSM-IV-TR, American Psychiatric Association, 2000b) diagnostic criteria for anorexia are listed as:

The DSM V Will Define Anorexia Differently

• Refusal to maintain a healthy weight range for age and height, or failure to make expected weight gains at times of growth and physical development


• Fear of gaining weight or becoming fat


• Distorted Body Image


• Loss of periods (menstrual cycle) in women who are not using any external source of estrogen, e.g. oral contraceptives.

Two Types Of Anorexia - Definition Of Anorexia Nervosa

I have a feeling that not many people are aware of the fact that there are two types of anorexia within the definition of anorexia nervosa itself. They are:

Retricting type

• In this type of anorexia nervosa, "weight loss is achieved by severe caloric restrictions and excessive exercise. During the current episode of anorexia, the anorexic must not have engaged in regular binge and purge behavior"

The Binge And Purge Type Of Anorexia

• "Binge and purge type anorexia resembles restricting-type anorexia, but also includes periods of binge eating followed by purging behavior to avoid weight gain"

It is possible for anorexics to develop further signs of bulimia and vice versa. If you or someone you know is engaging in the behaviors described above, it's vitally important that you consult your physician!

There are types of eating disorders and other illness that can mimic anorexia, so PLEASE make sure you get the proper help for any disordered eating behaviors. You are worth it :)

Definition Of Anorexia In The New DSM V

There's been a lot of controversy in the news regarding the definitions of eating disorders and how treatment can be delayed, or not even possible, because of the way things are currently outlined in the DSM-IV.

I've posted an article on the subject that deals with the consequences surrounding how we currently define anorexia. Read about anorexia symptoms and treatments here

The new Diagnostic And Statistical Manual Of Mental Disorders (DSM V) should be released fairly soon. My understanding of the proposed changes to the definition of anorexia include:

• Removal of the sub-types of anorexia


• Non-specific weight restrictions. Anorexia would be diagnosed in someone of "markedly low weight" as opposed to the person weighing less than 85% of their ideal body weight


• The removal of amenorrhea (loss of periods, menstrual cycle) as one of the citeria

I will be following this closely, and will keep you updated as to what eventually is decided.

I hope I've helped to shed a little light on how to define anorexia, how physicians arrive at an anorexia diagnosis and introduced you to the different variations of anorexia.

Now you may also be interested to learn more about the causes of anorexia, or treatments for anorexia.

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