The Relationship between Adverse Life Experiences in Childhood and Unhealthy Eating Behavior in Adulthood: A Literature Review

Abstract

The manuscript is simply discussing several forms of adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and their negative impact on children. ACE may contribute to the development of eating disorders (ED) that mostly appear during adolescence, and if untreated earlier, children will suffer ED chronically. Undoubtedly, we are humans that make mistakes, and such mistakes may be stressful to others. Also, life is not so easy; it involves difficulties as well as enjoyment. Thus, in this study, the author analyzed the stressful conditions that occur in childhood and their negative impact on human behaviour that can be developed into many disorders such as eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and others. The author used the methodology of searching articles published between 1990 and till present. The authors investigated the factors that play a role in the appearance of such disorders such as culture, media, genetics, upbringing, environment, peers, school, and others. The severity of disorders depends on the intensity, harshness, and frequency of ACE. Moreover, the relative relationship between the child and the one who harmed him plays a significant role in the severity of disorders. Studies proved that treatment of disorders is not impossible, and relief can occur.