ABSTRACT
In order to appraise the relative dangers of online self-harmful communities, they need to be properly understood. To correct common misunderstandings, this chapter turns to the digital rhetoric of primary sources produced by community members. By reading their thoughts, it is immediately apparent that people who discuss their self-harmful experiences online are in pain and feel isolated from the mainstream. When their friends, caregivers, or neighbourhood hear about their actions, they are generally met with distress, anger, or ridicule rather than care and practical solutions. Conversely, the internet is a safe space where deviant ideas can be expressed and genuine support is offered. This chapter introduces some of the ways participants engage with the pro-ana community, finding support from each other while simultaneously sharing contagious online scripting that perpetuates dangerous actions. Core to the pro-ana experience is the sharing of ‘thinspiration’ – idealised images of emaciated bodies, and explicit instructions for worsening starvation and while hiding it from caregivers. While these are clearly dangerous and maladaptive actions, they do lead to much-needed support from an empathetic community.
