Bulimia nervosa is characterized by...

Bulimia nervosa is primarily characterized by the cycle of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as purging. This disorder involves consuming large quantities of food in a short period, often accompanied by a sense of loss of control during the eating episode. After binge eating, individuals typically engage in behaviors like vomiting, excessive exercise, or the misuse of laxatives to prevent weight gain. This cycle can significantly affect physical health, emotional well-being, and self-image, making it important to recognize this hallmark behavior in diagnosing the disorder.

The other options might describe elements associated with eating disorders or mental health issues, but they do not specifically define bulimia nervosa. For instance, while the fear of gaining weight can be associated with anorexia nervosa, it is not the central feature of bulimia nervosa. Similarly, mood disturbances and inadequate social skills may relate to overall mental health or various disorders but do not encapsulate the defining behavioral pattern of bulimia nervosa.