1.3 Genetically hereditary family genesNumerous studies have shown the role of heredity in eating disorders. Eating disorders are obviously passed down within families, which means that heredity is of course a factor. Although the study data did not demonstrate that eating problems are naturally passed down from mother to daughter, for example, it does demonstrate a possible transmission of traits or vulnerability to other stressors that appear to increase the risk of developing these disorders (Douglas). Approximately 56% of the risk of developing an eating disorder is due to genetic factors, and individuals with affected family members are twelve times more likely to develop an eating disorder (Engel, 2007). Further research into the hereditary components of eating problems has been conducted in neurochemistry. The neurotransmitters neuroepinephrine and serotonin have been shown to be extremely decreased in patients with intense cases of bulimia and anorexia nervosa. These are the same neurotransmitters that function in negative ways when people struggle with misery. This relationship has led some scientists to think that there may be a link between food problems and poverty. In addition to creating emotions of passionate and physical satisfaction, the neurotransmitter serotonin is also responsible for feelings of wholeness following consumption. Extra-brain chemicals were investigated for their potential role in eating problems. Many studies suggest that few distinctive neurotransmitters are involved in eating disorders (Engel, 2007). The hormones cortisol and vasopressin have been observed at elevated levels in people with eating problems... middle of article... identifiable progression and predictable symptoms. Retrieved from http://www.raderprograms.com/causes-statistics/causes-statistics-overview.htmlScholz M, Asen E. (2001) Multiple family therapies for adolescents with eating disorders: concepts and preliminary results. European Journal of Eating Disorders 9:33-42. The Eating Disorder Foundation. (2013). About eating disorders. Retrieved from http://www.eatingdisorderfoundation.org/EatingDisorders.htmWitler, B. (nd). Peer pressure and eating disorders. Retrieved from http://www.coreythewackyapple.com/peer_pression.html