Adolescent Transitions and the Development of Eating Problems: Linda Smolak and Michael P. Levine

Early adolescence and late adolescence may constitute special risk periods for the development of eating disorders (Halmi et al., 1979; Wooley & Wooley, 1985). This suggests that adaptation to the events or developmental changes commonly associated with these transitions can take the form of eating disorders. The increase in associated eating problems, such as body dissatisfaction and dieting during early adolescence, bolsters this impression (Gralen, Levine, Smolak, & Murnen, 1990; Koff & Rierdan, 1991; Richards, Casper, & Larson, 1990).