Final answer:
Bulimic episodes are categorized in the DSM-5 based on their frequency: Mild is 1-3 episodes per week, Moderate is 4-7, Severe is 8-13, and Extreme is 14 or more. Bulimia nervosa involves binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, leading to serious health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Categorizing the Frequency of Bulimic Episodes
The frequency of bulimic episodes is typically categorized using a range that defines the severity of bulimia nervosa. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) provides the following criteria for bulimia nervosa:
- Mild: 1-3 episodes of inappropriate compensatory behaviors per week
- Moderate: 4-7 episodes per week
- Severe: 8-13 episodes per week
- Extreme: 14 or more episodes per week
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications, fasting, or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain. These behaviors often result in serious health issues, including electrolyte imbalances and irregular heartbeat. This disorder has a significant lifetime prevalence rate and is more common in females, although it also affects males.