The term "pro-ana" is shorthand for pro-anorexia. It's a movement, found primarily online, promoting behaviors related to the eating disorder. Photographs, songs and quotes are shared— serving as inspiration for starvation.

For years, experts believed such sites were a bad influence on those struggling with anorexia. The French government recently cracked down on "pro-ana" sites, making it a crime to "incite excessive thinness." 

But now a crew of researchers, activists, and therapists are claiming pro-ana sites may actually serve a beneficial purpose.

Amanda Hess wrote about this recently for Slate.

To hear the full interview with Amanda Hess, click the link above.

You can find more information about eating disorders at NationalEatingDisorders.org