ABSTRACT
The Developmental Theory of Embodiment is a feminist theory that takes as its starting point the observation that gender is a risk factor in the development of eating disorders. The three social factors that shape connected or disrupted embodiment in girls and women include the protective and risk factors of physical freedom, mental freedom, and social power. When individuals present with disordered eating behaviours, assessment should include a broad evaluation of their experiences of embodiment in addition to the social factors that influence their embodiment. Several aspects of social factors that have been studied in relation to embodiment include gender, sexuality, eating, dementia, religion, and alcohol use. Disrupted embodiment also involves harsh self-evaluation of one's body based on external standards regarding appearance and may include behaviours or practices that are dictated by external standards rather than by one's own bodily needs or desires.
