Pro ana (1): eating disorder or a lifestyle?

Abstract

Pro Ana is a way of life promoted only in a virtual space, the aim of which is to obsessively strive to achieve the target very low weight. This aspiration is perceived as the only way to achieve perfection, bodily and consequently also spiritual excellence. Anorexia is, according to the participants of this movement, a deliberately chosen lifestyle, not a disease. It is a demonstration of strength and not a proof of the existence of a mental or physical health problem. The Internet, on the other hand, is a "shelter" from the real, uncomprehending, medicalizating , disapproving world. It is on the Internet that Pro ana’s portals are a place to create identity of participants of the movement.

Keywords

• Pro ana
• eating disorders
• pro anorexia movement
• addiction
• lifestyle