It's important to note that there are illnesses and disorders related to body image and weight gain. However, the reason anorexia (an eating disorder where someone wants to become extremely skinny and restricts their food intake) is more commonly known than a specific disorder where someone intentionally wants to become fat is due to several factors:
Cultural and societal norms: In many cultures, there is a strong emphasis on thinness as an ideal body shape. The media often portrays thinness as attractive, leading to an increased focus on weight loss and dieting. This can contribute to the prevalence of anorexia and other disorders related to wanting to be skinny.
Medical consequences and concerns: Anorexia nervosa is a severe eating disorder that can have life-threatening consequences. It often leads to significant weight loss, malnutrition, and a range of health issues. Given the serious health risks associated with anorexia, it tends to receive more attention in medical and mental health discussions.
Different motivations and psychological factors: The motivations behind anorexia and the desire to be skinny are complex and can be influenced by various psychological factors such as low self-esteem, body dysmorphia, and the desire for control. Conversely, the desire to be intentionally fat is less commonly observed and may have different underlying psychological drivers.
Social stigma: While thinness is often celebrated in various aspects of society, being overweight or obese can be stigmatized. This may discourage individuals from openly expressing a desire to be fat and seeking attention or support for such a desire.
That being said, it's crucial to acknowledge that disorders related to body image and weight issues exist on a spectrum. There are conditions like binge eating disorder, where individuals struggle with recurrent episodes of excessive eating, leading to weight gain and related health concerns. Additionally, some individuals may develop body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which can lead to a preoccupation with perceived defects or flaws in their appearance, irrespective of their actual body size.
In summary, the visibility and understanding of certain disorders may be influenced by cultural factors, medical consequences, and the complexity of the underlying psychological motivations. It's essential to be aware that mental health and body image disorders can manifest in various ways, and seeking professional help and support is crucial for anyone struggling with these issues.