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Skinny Genes?

An Interdisciplinary Look at a Complex Behavioral Disorder

By Joan-Beth Gow, Lisa A. Carpino

Skinny Genes?


 

Abstract

This case study introduces Megi, an active teenager who has recovered from anorexia nervosa.  The method of progressive disclosure is used to take students back in time as Megi recalls the physical and psychological aspects of her illness and the long path to recovery. The case was designed to be interdisciplinary as students grapple with the underlying causes of anorexia and particularly with the relative contributions of genetics vs. environment. The case conveys the complexity of anorexia and how societal perception of the disease and its cause has changed over time. The case has been used successfully in psychology and genetics courses with both majors and non-majors. The case could be readily used in biology courses and could be adapted for use in a nutrition or nursing course. Optional extensions to the case provide for more in depth reflection on the history of eating disorders and how society's perception of these complex illnesses has changed over time.

   

Date Posted

06/22/2017

Overview

Objectives

  • Identify the current diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa according to the latest edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
  • Make empirical observations that reflect the characteristics of anorexia and define it as a medical condition.
  • Integrate key concepts such as nature versus nurture, twin studies, complex patterns of inheritance and epigenetics to understand anorexia from a multidisciplinary perspective.
  • Develop skills in critical thinking.
  • Distinguish popular misconceptions based on stereotypes from facts based on research data and diagnostic criteria.
  • Outline how the role of family and society has changed over time in the understanding of anorexia.
  • Explore eating disorders as a complex interaction between genes and the environment.
  • Analyze graphic data to evaluate the contribution of both the environment and genetics to multiple psychological disorders.

Keywords

anorexia; eating disorders; nature vs. nurture; heredity; twin studies; behavioral disorder; psychological disorder; genetics; family dynamics; cultural influence; epigenetics

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Genetics / Heredity
Interdisciplinary Sciences
Medicine (General)
Nutrition
Psychology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

Social issues

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Directed, Discussion, Interrupted

 

 

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