 Since we were discussing self-esteem in the last post, it might be appropriate to explore some of the problems that are sometimes believed to spring from low levels of it. Could there actually be deeper origins to some of these problems? Maybe some of them result not so much from low self-esteem itself, as from the same missing family relationships that cause the symptoms popularly identified as low self-esteem?
For example, eating disorders are popularly believed to be the result of obsessing over a poor body image. Teen girls, it is said, compare themselves to unrealistically perfect media images, and find themselves compelled to meet these ideals—to the point that they become anorexic or bulimic. Though one can't completely discount the negative impact of unrealistic media images, there are other considerations that could move society even closer to uncovering the basis of eating disorders. Interestingly, one such consideration comes to light in a study published this month in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, which suggests that girls who eat regular meals with their families have fewer eating disorders. This longitudinal study conducted over a five-year period concluded that "it is important to help families find more ways to increase the frequency of family meals given the high prevalence of unhealthy weight control practices and other disordered eating behaviors in the present study and other studies." Going even further, the researchers pointed out that several other studies suggest there are "additional benefits of family meals including improved dietary intake, lower levels of substance use, and higher levels of psychosocial well-being."  But wait—these are many of the same factors that improve for girls when their fathers are involved in their lives. Involved fathers presumably eat family meals with their daughters. Is it possible that the importance of this study's finding goes beyond the meal itself to an overarching set of family values?
Experts such as Wake Forest University's Linda Nielsen say that daughters with involved fathers tend to have more confidence, and are less likely to be promiscuous. Promiscuity, of course, is one way of seeking confirmation that one is attractive. Eating disorders are another. In the light of these considerations it's difficult to argue with the researchers in this longitudinal study, who urge, "The high prevalence of disordered eating behaviors among adolescent girls and the protective role of family meals suggest a need for interventions aimed at promoting family meals." | 
