• Generally, individuals with anorexia are compliant.  Sometime, they are overly compliant, to the extent that they lack adequate self-perception.  They usually do well in school and may often overextend themselves in a variety of activities.  The families of anorexics often appear to be “perfect.”  Physical appearances are important to them.  Performance in other areas is stressed as well, and they are often high achievers.
• While control and perfection are critical issues for individuals with anorexia, aspects of their life other than their eating habits are often found to be out of control as well.  Many have, or have had at some point in their lives, addictions to alcohol, drugs, or gambling.  Compulsions involving sex, exercising, housework, and shopping are not uncommon.  In particular, people with anorexia often exercise compulsively to speed the weight-loss process.

All of these features can negatively affect one’s daily activities.  Diminished interest in previously preferred activities can result.  Some individuals also have symptoms that meet the diagnostic criteria for a major depressive disorder.