Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

At what typical age does anorexia nervosa generally onset?

1. 12-14 years old

2. 14-16 years old

3. 16-18 years old

4. 18-20 years old

The correct answer is: 14-16 years old

Anorexia nervosa typically has its onset during the early to mid-adolescence phase, with ages ranging from 12 to 14 years being particularly significant. However, the choice indicating the age range of 14-16 years is commonly identified as a critical period where the incidence of anorexia nervosa peaks. During this age, adolescents are undergoing significant physical, psychological, and social changes that can influence body image, self-esteem, and eating behaviors. Moreover, this age span aligns with the developmental stages when many adolescents are increasingly exposed to societal pressures regarding body image and attractiveness, often leading them to adopt restrictive eating patterns. Given these factors, the 14-16 year range reflects a common timeframe during which individuals are likely to begin exhibiting symptoms of anorexia nervosa, making it the correct answer in this context.