This report describes an eating disorder as a multi-dimensional physiological, psychological, social, and cultural illness. A chart describing the typical anorexic and bulimic is included which has on its horizontal axis the predisposing, precipitating, perpetuating, professional help, and prevention factors of anorexia nervosa and bulimia. On its vertical axis, each factor is further divided into physical or physiological contributing factors, psychological or emotional contributing factors, and social and cultural factors. The text of the paper elaborates on the information provided in the chart, examining the physiological, psychological, social and cultural dimensions of eating disorders in the areas of predisposing factors, precipitating factors, perpetuating factors, professional help, and prevention of eating disorders. The need for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is discussed and the value of family and group support is emphasized. The section on prevention suggests that young people be educated about stress management, physical changes associated with normal development, the side effects of dieting during adolescence, and basic nutrition facts. (NB)