| Eating disorders have long been a focus of clinical interest. However, because of the general belief that disordered eating occurs mainly in females and homosexual males, the experiences of heterosexual males, especially middle-age males, have been frequently overlooked (Shisslak, Crago, & Estes, 1995; Tylka & Subich, 2002; Woodside et al., 2001). This is a concern, as disordered eating can cause emotional and physical distress. The limited research in this subset of the male population prompted the creation of this study to explore the experiences and differences between younger and middle-age heterosexual males. The study implemented a qualitative approach utilizing an open-ended interview. Six heterosexual males, ranging in age from 21 to 42, participated. Although results indicated subtle differences between older and younger participants, a central theme emerged of the value of health. Implications of these findings and directions for future research are also discussed. |
