Eating Disorders: A Woman's Issue?

A Woman’s Place · Feb 19, 2026 · 29m

Quick—when you hear “eating disorder,” who do you picture? What kind of person?

If you're like most people, you picture a young white woman. And yes, by some estimates, 85–90% of those with diagnosed eating disorders are women. Hmmm… any ideas why that is? Women’s sense of control and agency, for one. The socialized importance of appearance (thinness!) for women, for another. But there’s more.

The triggers for eating disorders are often rooted in trauma. But clearly not everyone with trauma develops—or maintains—an eating disorder. And as our guest points out, what sustains and perpetuates an…