with the results. She soon realizes that she has discovered a method by which she can at last exercise control over her body—and ultimately over her family. Perhaps for the first time in her life, the anorectic has a feeling of power.”40 “Initially the patient may actually receive reinforcement in her weight loss effort from the praise and admiration of her friends. Unfortunately, what may have begun as an attempt to be more attractive in the eyes of peers eventually results in a self-imposed isolation