How would freud view eating disorders?

Psychoanalytic theory

According to psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud, eating disorders are a result of unconscious conflicts that originate in childhood. Freud believed that people with eating disorders are fixated at an early stage of psychosexual development, and that their symptoms are a way of expressing unconscious desires and conflicts.

Oral stage

Freud believed that people with eating disorders are fixated at the oral stage of development, which is the first stage of life. During this stage, infants derive pleasure from sucking and eating. People who are fixated at this stage may have an oral fixation, which means that they continue to seek pleasure from oral activities, such as eating. This can lead to overeating or binge eating.

Anal stage

Freud also believed that people with eating disorders may be fixated at the anal stage of development. During this stage, children begin to learn about control and autonomy. People who are fixated at this stage may have an anal fixation, which means that they are preoccupied with control and order. This can lead to restrictive eating or anorexia nervosa.

Phallic stage

Finally, Freud believed that people with eating disorders may be fixated at the phallic stage of development. During this stage, children begin to develop a sense of their gender identity and sexuality. People who are fixated at this stage may have a phallic fixation, which means that they are preoccupied with sexual power and dominance. This can lead to bulimia nervosa, which is characterized by binge eating and purging.

Treatment

Psychoanalytic treatment for eating disorders typically involves helping patients to become aware of their unconscious conflicts and to develop healthier ways of coping with these conflicts. Treatment may also involve addressing underlying issues, such as childhood trauma or abuse, that may be contributing to the eating disorder.