Can A Rational Choice Framework Make Sense of Anorexia Nervosa?

Robert Goldfarb (), Thomas Leonard, Sara Markowitz and Steven Suranovic

No 14838, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: Can a rational choice modeling framework help broaden our understanding of anorexia nervosa? This question is interesting because anorexia nervosa is a serious health concern, and because of the following issue: could a rational choice approach shed useful light on a condition which appears to involve "choosing" to be ill? We present a model of weight choice and dieting applicable to anorexia nervosa, and the sometimes-associated purging behavior. We also present empirical evidence about factors possibly contributing to anorexia nervosa. We offer this analysis as a consciousness-raising way of thinking about the condition.

JEL-codes: D0 I0 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2009-04
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-hpe
Note: CH EH
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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