Bulimia nervosa is characterized by which of the following behaviors?

Bulimia nervosa is primarily defined by a cycle of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors aimed at preventing weight gain. This typically involves purging, which can include self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or the misuse of laxatives. The binge-eating episodes are often characterized by consuming large amounts of food in a short period, during which the individual feels a lack of control over their eating behavior.

This cycle can lead to significant physical and psychological distress. Individuals with bulimia nervosa may experience preoccupation with body shape and weight, contributing to feelings of shame and guilt following binge episodes. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the hallmark behavior of bulimia nervosa that differentiates it from other eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or binge-eating disorder, which do not include the purging aspect following binge eating.