Which of the following statements about anorexia nervosa is accurate?

• A. Individuals with anorexia nervosa typically have a body mass index above the normal range.
• B. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image.
• C. People with anorexia nervosa usually have no concerns about their eating habits.
• D. Anorexia nervosa is more common in males than females.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key characteristics of anorexia nervosa, which is an eating disorder primarily involving an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of body image.
2. Step 2: Recognize that individuals with anorexia nervosa typically have a body mass index (BMI) below the normal range due to severe restriction of food intake, so the statement about BMI being above normal is inaccurate.
3. Step 3: Note that people with anorexia nervosa are usually very concerned about their eating habits, often obsessing over food, calories, and weight control, which contradicts the statement that they have no concerns about eating habits.
4. Step 4: Consider the prevalence of anorexia nervosa, which is more common in females than males, making the statement about it being more common in males incorrect.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the accurate statement is the one describing anorexia nervosa as characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, as this aligns with clinical definitions and diagnostic criteria.