Pro-Ana – stöd eller död? Om hur anorektiker interagerar med varandra på Internet inom subkulturen Pro-ana

Sammanfattning: Abstract Socio-cultural standards of beauty ideals contribute to a widespread dieting frenzy. Pro-ana subculture advocates anorexia and eating disorders in terms of lifestyle choices. Using the Internet as a basis for a subcultural community online. The aim of this study is to find out how this phenomenon is expressed on the Internet: How does Pro-ana argue for their cause? How can Pro-ana be described, as subculture or as a support group for young women with eating disorders? A qualitative document analysis was conducted on Pro-ana websites using theory of subcultures, support groups / self help groups and anorexia. Subsequently, the survey results are presented in various themes. The results showed that Pro-ana subculture is highly valued by its members and fulfil a function comparable to the support groups and/or self-help groups. However Pro-ana´s norms and ideals of a destructive lifestyle are not helping anyone overcome eating disorders, but support those who choose an anorexic life.