Final answer:
Ashley's parents would most likely have described her as having low self-esteem.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before their discovery of her eating disorder, Ashley's parents would most likely have described her as having low self-esteem. Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa are often closely related to low self-esteem and body image issues. Ashley's normal weight and appropriate meals in the presence of her parents may have masked her eating disorder, which is common in individuals with body dysmorphic disorder. Therefore, the correct answer is A. having low self-esteem.