What is the main issue for adolescents with anorexia?

D. Denial is a defense mechanism where individuals refuse to acknowledge or accept a painful or distressing reality. In this case, despite objective medical evidence (biopsy results and MRI findings), the client persists in believing that the diagnosis of terminal cancer is incorrect. This refusal to accept the reality of the situation is characteristic of denial.

A. Anger typically involves feelings of frustration, resentment, or hostility towards others or the situation. While anger can be a reaction to receiving a terminal diagnosis, it is not reflective of refusing to accept the diagnosis itself.

B. Anxiety involves feelings of worry, fear, or unease about future events or uncertainties. While anxiety can accompany a terminal diagnosis, it does not manifest as outright refusal or disbelief in the diagnosis itself.

C. Withdrawal refers to a retreat or disengagement from social interactions or activities. It can be a coping mechanism in response to stress or difficult emotions. However, withdrawal does not specifically relate to refusing to accept a diagnosis like terminal cancer.

D. Body image disturbance is a fundamental issue in anorexia nervosa. Adolescents with anorexia often have a distorted perception of their body size and shape, seeing themselves as overweight even when significantly underweight. This distorted body image drives their obsessive behaviors around food restriction and excessive exercise in an attempt to achieve an unrealistic and unhealthy body image.

A. While adolescents with anorexia may exhibit behaviors related to food restriction, excessive exercise, or other rituals, the core issue goes beyond simply adhering to appropriate behavior. Anorexia nervosa is driven by deep-seated fears, anxieties, and perceptions related to body image and weight.

B. Control is a central issue in anorexia nervosa. Adolescents often use strict control over food intake and exercise as a way to manage overwhelming feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty. By controlling their food intake and weight, individuals with anorexia may seek to regain a sense of mastery and control over their lives amidst other stressors.

C. Anxiety is a common comorbidity in individuals with anorexia nervosa, but it is not the primary issue. Anxiety often stems from fears related to weight gain, body image dissatisfaction, and the perceived loss of control. Anxiety exacerbates the obsessive thoughts and behaviors around food and weight seen in anorexia nervosa.