"Bigorexia" can make a gym obsession harmful but often goes unrecognized

Salon - Apr 6th, 2025
Open on Salon

Kenan, a young man who started working out to overcome bullying, found himself trapped in a cycle of obsession with muscularity, a condition known as muscle dysmorphia. Despite initial gains, his life became dominated by rigorous workout schedules and strict dietary regimens, ultimately recognizing his condition through a bodybuilding forum. Experts like Dr. Jason Nagata and Dr. Kyle T. Ganson highlight the lack of awareness and research surrounding muscle dysmorphia, noting its links to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, and its association with supplement and steroid use.

Muscle dysmorphia, first identified in 1997, challenges societal norms by presenting a disorder where typical healthy habits become detrimental. The condition predominantly affects men and is exacerbated by media portrayals and social media pressures. Recent studies suggest a significant prevalence among boys and men, but the disorder often goes unrecognized due to cultural stigmas around masculinity and muscularity. The story underscores the need for more research and awareness to aid those struggling with muscle dysmorphia and to break the cycle of obsession with body image.

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RATING

7.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive and accurate overview of muscle dysmorphia, combining personal narratives with expert insights to effectively communicate the condition's psychological and societal implications. It is well-structured and written in clear, accessible language, making it suitable for a general audience. The article is timely and relevant, addressing important public health issues related to body image and mental health. However, it could benefit from more detailed data on prevalence and treatment efficacy, as well as a broader range of perspectives to enhance balance and controversy. Overall, the article is a valuable contribution to the ongoing conversation about body image disorders and their impact on individuals and society.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The article accurately describes muscle dysmorphia, also known as bigorexia, as a subtype of body dysmorphic disorder characterized by an obsessive focus on muscle size. This is consistent with established definitions in medical literature. The story cites experts like Dr. Jason Nagata and Dr. Kyle T. Ganson, who provide credible insights into the condition's symptoms and societal influences. However, some claims, such as the exact prevalence rates cited from Ganson's study, would benefit from additional verification through broader epidemiological studies. The article mentions the lack of specific questions about muscle dysmorphia in national surveys, which is a verifiable fact. Overall, the story is largely accurate but could be strengthened by more precise data on prevalence and treatment efficacy.

7
Balance

The article presents a balanced view of muscle dysmorphia, incorporating perspectives from individuals affected by the condition, like Kenan, as well as expert opinions from psychologists and researchers. This blend of personal narrative and scientific insight provides a comprehensive overview of the issue. However, the article could expand its balance by including perspectives from those who may not view muscle dysmorphia as a significant problem or who argue for the benefits of fitness culture. Additionally, exploring cultural and gender differences in the perception and impact of muscle dysmorphia could enhance the article's balance.

9
Clarity

The article is well-written, with clear and accessible language that effectively communicates complex psychological and medical concepts to a general audience. The structure is logical, beginning with Kenan's personal story and expanding into expert analysis and broader societal implications. The use of subheadings and quotes from experts helps to break up the text and maintain reader engagement. The article's tone is neutral and informative, making it easy to follow. However, a clearer distinction between anecdotal evidence and scientific findings could further enhance clarity.

8
Source quality

The article relies on credible sources, including interviews with recognized experts in the field of adolescent medicine and social work. Dr. Jason Nagata and Dr. Kyle T. Ganson are both well-regarded in their respective areas, lending authority to the article's claims. The inclusion of a personal account from Kenan adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. However, the article could improve by citing specific studies or providing links to the research mentioned, such as the studies conducted by Ganson, to enhance the reader's ability to verify the information independently.

7
Transparency

The article is transparent in its presentation, clearly stating the sources of its information and the experts consulted. It discloses the use of a pseudonym for Kenan to protect his privacy, which is an important ethical consideration. However, the article could improve transparency by providing more detailed information about the methodologies of the studies referenced and clarifying any potential conflicts of interest among the experts cited. Additionally, offering more context about the limitations of current research on muscle dysmorphia would help readers understand the scope and reliability of the information presented.

Sources

  1. https://therapygroupdc.com/therapist-dc-blog/understanding-bigorexia-signs-causes-and-solutions/
  2. https://www.healthline.com/health/bigorexia
  3. https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/mental-health/bigorexia/
  4. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/muscle-dysmorphia/
  5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/body-dysmorphic-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353938