Teens Find Online Tips for Self-Abuse

KPBS | By KPBS Public Broadcasting

Published December 13, 2006 at 10:11 AM PST

This story was published more than 17 years ago.

Recent studies show that the Internet is becoming a close friend of teenagers with eating disorders, and the popularity of robotripping increased 50% each year since 1999. We speak with medical ex

Tom Fudge: Anorexia and bulimia are eating disorders that are common among American girls and young women. The process of voluntarily starving oneself, and purging food to remain thin, is not viewed as positive by anyone, aside from those who actually do it.

Like many other people with addictions and compulsive behaviors, people with anorexia and bulimia want to nurture their compulsions. And they’re finding information about how to do it on the Internet. There are many websites today that instruct young girls on how to starve themselves, purge food and get away with it.

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Guests

Dr. Richard Buccigross ,clinical director of Sharp Mesa Vista Hospital's Child and Adolescent Services.
Dr. Laura Vleugels ,child and adolescent psychiatrist who treats anorexic patients.

Teens Find Online Tips for Self-Abuse

Recent studies show that the Internet is becoming a close friend of teenagers with eating disorders, and the popularity of robotripping increased 50% each year since 1999. We speak with medical ex

Recent studies show that the Internet is becoming a close friend of teenagers with eating disorders, and the popularity of robotripping increased 50% each year since 1999. We speak with medical ex