Working Paper: NBER ID: w14838
Authors: Robert S. Goldfarb; Thomas C. Leonard; Sara Markowitz; Steven Suranovic
Abstract: Can a rational choice modeling framework help broaden our understanding of anorexia nervosa? This question is interesting because anorexia nervosa is a serious health concern, and because of the following issue: could a rational choice approach shed useful light on a condition which appears to involve "choosing" to be ill? We present a model of weight choice and dieting applicable to anorexia nervosa, and the sometimes-associated purging behavior. We also present empirical evidence about factors possibly contributing to anorexia nervosa. We offer this analysis as a consciousness-raising way of thinking about the condition.
Keywords: anorexia nervosa; rational choice; weight choice; dieting; health economics
JEL Codes: D0
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| preferences (D11) | anorexia nervosa (Y60) |
| perceived ideal weight (I31) | choices resulting in dangerously low body weight (D91) |
| social factors (Z13) | perceived ideal weight (I31) |
| choices resulting in dangerously low body weight (D91) | anorexia nervosa (Y60) |
| rational choice (D01) | anorexia nervosa (Y60) |
| individual's preferences and constraints (D10) | choices to restrict calorie intake (D10) |