Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is exhibited in individuals that refuse to maintain a normal body weight (i.e., 15% below normal for age and height), have an intense fear of weight gain, and reveal disturbances in one’s shape (self-evaluation or denial). Additionally, females must be in a state of amenorrhea for at least three consecutive months.

Bulimia Nervosa (BN) is viewed as repeated events of binge eating (larger than normal quantity of food in one sitting) within a short period of time (two or less hours), followed by a sense of “no control.” In response the individual uses extreme measures to rid or remove the food such as purging, fasting, use of laxatives, diuretics, medications, excessive exercise, etc. This behavior occurs at least two times a week for at least three consecutive months.

Binge eating disorder (BED) is experienced through repeated episodes of vast food consumption in a short period of time accompanied by lack of control. During the episode individuals may (1) eat rapidly, (2) continue to eat regardless of fullness, or until discomfort is present, (3) eat in isolation to avoid embarrassment and (4) experience overwhelming disappointment, guilt and depression.

Common Characteristics: low self esteem and self worth; loss of control, power and autonomy; perfectionistic; dichotomous thinking style; aspires for uniqueness, respect and admiration; feelings of isolation; lack of coping and interpersonal skills; lack of trust; fear of failure and emotional expression. They are generally hard working, high achieving, self-sacrificing and extremely self disciplined.

Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS) was developed for individuals that exhibit several of the ED qualities yet for one reason or another do not fit clearly in any particular category.

Body Image Disturbance: Body image disturbance has taken on an umbrella of meanings; however, in general the focus is on appearance. "Disturbance" refers to feelings, perceptions and behavior. "Body image" refers to weight satisfaction, body satisfaction, appearance evaluation and satisfaction, and body distortion. Each of these expressions has a slightly different meaning, yet body image disturbance is identified at the "start" and "end" of the eating disorder, and is found to be the most difficult belief to eliminate. 

Exercise Addictions (Anorexia Athletica): Occasionally an exercise addiction runs concurrent with anorexia, bulimia, or obsessive-compulsive disorders. Individuals with this condition exercise excessively regardless of time constraints or injuries, and focus markedly on weight loss, diet, and increasing their exercise challenges. Often times they overlook that exercise is “fun,” define themselves by their accomplishments and continue to create more challenging workouts. Exercise addictions are commonly employed as a means of controlling weight, intrusive thoughts or off-setting eating that is still within the individual’s control.