The exact cause of bulimia is unknown, and it’s likely the result of multiple sociocultural, psychological, and genetic factors. Other risk factors include perfectionism, impulsivity, a negative self-image, and being diagnosed with other mood disorders. A history of being bullied, sexually abused, or experiencing eating problems or obesity as a child could also increase the risk of eating disorders like bulimia.[1] Sociocultural beauty ideals and social media have also been identified as potential contributing factors.[2][3][4]
What causes bulimia nervosa?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
The exact cause of bulimia nervosa is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of sociocultural, psychological, and genetic factors. Risk factors include perfectionism, impulsivity, negative self-image, mood disorders, and a history of bullying or abuse, along with the influence of societal beauty ideals and social media.