Alarming Rise in Eating Disorder Pacts Among Queensland Schoolchildren Linked to TikTok Trend
In recent news, a disturbing trend has been identified among schoolchildren in Queensland, Australia. An investigation by The Courier Mail has revealed a concerning increase in eating disorder pacts amongst these young individuals, and it seems that the viral TikTok trend known as ‘Girl Dinner’ may be partly to blame.
According to the investigation, there were a staggering 1,304 admissions of individuals aged between 0-19 with health complications related to eating disorders between January and July of this year alone. One teacher interviewed by the publication shared her firsthand experience of witnessing the rise of diet clubs within schools, where children encourage each other to engage in or continue disordered eating behaviors.
The teacher expressed her shock, stating, We’ve never seen anything like it. I know of kids who were being admitted for eating disorders at six years of age, requiring tube feedings at the hospital because they didn’t want to get fat. We have girls passing out because they refuse to take their jumpers off due to body image concerns, even if it means feeling unwell to the point of passing out at school.
Unfortunately, teachers often lack proper training in eating disorders, resulting in a significant challenge when it comes to addressing these issues. While they may be well-versed in identifying signs of abuse, self-harm, and neglect, assistance in helping students develop a positive body image is not currently seen as a priority.
The teacher also emphasized the need for changes in the education curriculum, which currently perpetuates the notion of food morality. This concept labels certain foods as ‘bad’ and others as ‘good,’ effectively brainwashing children. Moreover, many primary schools have implemented lunch box policies that label junk food as forbidden, leading to children who bring such food being shamed as ‘naughty.’ This, in turn, raises concerns about how these detrimental practices contribute to the development of eating disorders.
Experts have also expressed their alarm at viral social media trends like ‘girl dinner’ and ‘what I eat in a day,’ particularly for those in recovery from eating disorders. These videos often engage in body checking, where creators showcase their appearance before sharing their food choices. The portions presented are often very small and consist of what is deemed ‘healthy’ and low in calories, effectively encouraging viewers to emulate these habits in order to achieve a similar appearance.
Lexi Crouch, a clinical nutritionist who personally struggled with an eating disorder from a young age, stated, There is a growing need for teachers to receive proper education and for positive body image to be included in the curriculum. This is something I wish I had experienced as a child, instead of being drawn into diet culture before finally recovering from an eating disorder.
It is evident that urgent action is required to address the rise in eating disorder pacts among Queensland schoolchildren. Education, both for teachers and students, needs to focus on fostering a healthy body image and promoting positive relationships with food. Additionally, social media platforms must take responsibility and address the harmful impact of viral trends on vulnerable individuals.
By prioritizing the well-being of our young people and working together as a community, we can hope to reverse this alarming trend and provide the support necessary for those affected by eating disorders to recover and thrive.
Sources:
– The Courier Mail – Article Title: Alarming Rise in Eating Disorder Pacts Among Queensland Schoolchildren Linked to TikTok Trend
–https://www.couriermail.com.au/lifestyle/health/qld-eating-disorder-pacts-rise-in-school-children-linked-to-tik-tok-trend/news-story/ce031051a08a489a34c2aeb344e85004
