Many previous studies in Anorexia Nervosa have shown that the reasons for it are as
complex and various as the regions and societies it occurs in, Most studies have been
limited to the U.S. and Europe or other equally economically thriving countries. But in
this essay I wish to focus on Anorexia in such Confucianist societies as Japan or
Korea; which in Asia are the most economically successful nations up to date. Most of
the data provided within this essay is derived from my own harrowing experience with
Anorexia while living in Korea for a span of 18 years, of which the previous 8 were
commited to my fight with Anorexia. And the experience with other individuals with
the same problems that I encountered while institutionized in medical facilities.
I. Family Values Based on Confucianism: The First Born and the Woman
In every family in Korea there is a patriarchal figure, mainly the grandfather. And then
There is the heir apparent father. And then there is the first born son which is to be
groomed to be next inline to preserve the family. The first born son is vehemently
trained in many ways. He is trained to first of all respect his parents and grandparents
without question. There is no room for your own opinion or doubts as long as they are
alive. There decisions are absolute until they say differently. This is the most
important factor that a first born son must learn. For example, there is an old Korean
story about a loving son and his wife who faced with starvation decide to broil and
serve their only child to their parents (to the wife the inlaws) because the way they
see it you only have one father or mother but children? You simply can have more if
you choose. This type of thinking is engraved in the mind. Second, you are taught to
always be able to achieve the highest standards in everything everything you engage
in, mainly studies. You have to be able to b...