Causes of anorexia nervosa

This article gives an overview of the biological, psychological, and social components that may play a role in the pathogenesis of anorexia nervosa (AN). It examines aspects that contribute to a vulnerability for AN, such as genes, personality traits, cognitions; considers a range of factors that may trigger disease onset (stress, life events, media); and explores the biopsychosocial factors that maintain the illness (physical, psychological, social responses). The attempt to develop an understanding of predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors is important in the development of effective strategies to prevent and treat AN, as well as in predicting those at greatest risk of a poor outcome.