The purpose of this publication is to provide discussion of some of the most difficult and controversial issues surrounding body image and eating disorders, specifically, anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. It includes contributions from a number of nationally and internationally recognized clinicians and researchers in the field. It also incorporates valuable contributions from community workers and consumers associated with body image and disordered eating issues. Part 1, "Challenging the Body Culture," includes a chapter that presents recommendations for action, along with a chapter that introduces the issues associated with body image and disordered eating behaviors. Part 2, "Social Factors and the Body Culture," deals with issues related to socio-cultural concerns: media, cosmetic surgery, and other emerging issues related to body culture and eating disorders. Part 3, "Treatment Issues--A Multidisciplinary Perspective," discusses the treatment of eating disorders from a number of clinical perspectives, such as psychiatry, nutrition, psychology, and nursing. Part 4, "Community Voices," presents material relating to "at-risk industries," community organizations, and personal stories and poems of "lived experience" as a sufferer, partner, parent, or sibling. The Epilogue encapsulates the tragedy and frustrations of the many families, careers, and professionals who have been touched by this public health issue. (Contains 12 tables over 590 references.) (ADT)