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negative self evaluation than the average female (Treasure et al., 2003). The self discrepancy theory (Strauman et al., 1991) attempts to explain the reasons behind the negative self evaluation. This theory divides the self into three portions: the actual (attributes the individual believes to possess), ideal (attributes the individual wants to possess), and the ought (attributes the individual feels she ought to possess). The discrepancies between the ideal, ought, and the actual self leads to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors (while trying to correct this inconsistency) (Strauman et al., 1991). Maladaptive eating behaviors are likely to evolve from conditions of continual negative self evaluation and dissatisfaction over appearance. Those with strong idealized and ought selves have a vulnerability towards severe negative self evaluation and thus, anorexia.

Although personality traits and cognitive precepts often lead to eating disorders such as AN, they are merely phenotypic manifestations of the disorder. Neurobiology also plays a role in this drama of AN vulnerability. However, with the neurobiological theories of AN vulnerability, it becomes difficult to separate cause from effect. For example, starvation and excessive exercising cause certain neurobiological changes (specifically an increase in 5-HT) that make the activity self perpetuating (Claridge & Davis, 2003; Davis et al., 1998). There has been some evidence to suggest that those who suffer from AN may have higher baselines of serotonin 5-HT (before the onset of the disorder) because of its relation to constraint and rigidity (Lask & Bryant-Waugh, 2000). The disturbance in 5-HT, which is responsible for suppressing food intake, is persist after recovery (Treasure et al., 2003). Also, increased 5-HT is associated with obsessive compulsive tendencies (which also do not dissipate after recovery) (Davis et al., 1998). In addition to the increased serotonin levels, those with anorexia may have a preexisting addictive personality which would perpetuate (if not facilitate) the disorder. Deficits within the common reward pathway may lead to an anhedonic personality, and therefore an inability to derive pleasure from food or other primary reinforcers. Exercising releases beta endorphins and dopamine which may compensate for this deficit, but become addicting in the process (Claridge & Davis, 2003).
Anorexia nervosa is a multifaceted disorder, with its etiology far outstretching psychosocial

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