Final answer:
For an individual to be diagnosed with bulimia nervosa, they must engage in recurrent binge eating episodes followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or the use of laxatives due to an intense fear of weight gain. Therefore, the correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent binge eating episodes, where a substantial amount of food is consumed in a short period. This is followed by compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, excessive use of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, or engaging in excessive exercise, in response to the extreme fear of gaining weight. The individual may have normal weight or be slightly overweight, but they often experience significant emotional distress, shame, and an intense fear of weight gain. It is important to note that rapid weight loss and extreme dietary restriction are more indicative of anorexia nervosa, while excessive weight gain is related to binge eating disorder. To be diagnosed with bulimia nervosa, frequent binge eating and subsequent purging behaviors must be present.