An eating disorder characterized by an irrational fear of weight gain leading to self-starvation is known as

An eating disorder characterized by an irrational fear of weight gain leading to self-starvation is known as

• A. Bulimia nervosa
• B. Binge eating disorder
• C. Anhedonia
• D. Anorexia nervosa

Answer: (D)

This item tests understanding of anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder defined by an intense fear of gaining weight that leads to self-starvation and very low body weight. People with this condition typically restrict calories, may have a distorted body image, and often engage in excessive dieting or exercise to avoid weight gain. The other options don’t fit this specific pattern: bulimia nervosa involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting or laxatives, not persistent self-starvation; binge eating disorder centers on recurrent large-volume eating without regular purging; anhedonia is a mood symptom characterized by a loss of interest or pleasure, not an eating disorder. Therefore, the description aligns with anorexia nervosa.

This item tests understanding of anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder defined by an intense fear of gaining weight that leads to self-starvation and very low body weight. People with this condition typically restrict calories, may have a distorted body image, and often engage in excessive dieting or exercise to avoid weight gain. The other options don’t fit this specific pattern: bulimia nervosa involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting or laxatives, not persistent self-starvation; binge eating disorder centers on recurrent large-volume eating without regular purging; anhedonia is a mood symptom characterized by a loss of interest or pleasure, not an eating disorder. Therefore, the description aligns with anorexia nervosa.