Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Which diagnosis is often associated with compulsive overeating without purging?

1. Bulimia Nervosa

2. Anorexia Nervosa

3. Binge Eating Disorder

4. Alcohol Use Disorder

The correct answer is: Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of eating large quantities of food often to the point of discomfort or distress, accompanied by a feeling of loss of control during the binge. Individuals with this disorder do not engage in purging behaviors, which distinguishes it from bulimia nervosa, where purging follows binge eating to prevent weight gain. People with binge eating disorder may eat even when they are not hungry and may eat quickly or alone to avoid scrutiny. The lack of compensatory behaviors like purging is a key diagnostic criterion, emphasizing the compulsive nature of the eating behavior without the subsequent attempt to eliminate the intake. This disorder is also associated with emotional distress, poor self-esteem, and issues related to body image, but the primary distinguishing factor remains the absence of any form of purging after binge episodes. This makes it clear why binge eating disorder is the correct diagnosis in this context.