In fifteen boys and girls, ages seven to fourteen, anorexia nervosa was manifested by denial of emaciation, absence of lack of appetite, and presence of active and conflicting fantasies centered around food and eating. Oral, sexual, and aggressive fantasies were conscious but with isolation of relevant affect. Depression and regression were characteristic findings as was the presence of a family neurosis. Conflict between mothers and grandmothers was prominent during childhood, with food being used as a focal issue. In these patients there were many conflicts which were similar to those of their parents with the preceding generation.