This helpful book brings new understanding to the complex problems of anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and obesity. The second edition describes new techniques in diagnosis and treatment, and features many case histories as told by patients themselves. The relationship between eating disorders and sexual development, as well as other patterns in the emergence of disorders, are explored in depth. With emphasis on establishing sensible eating and exercise patterns, and on the role of self-help groups for recovering patients, this book provides essential facts to people suffering from eating disorders, their families, and health professionals working to help them.