Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

Binge eating may be a criterion for which of the following diagnoses?

1. Major depressive disorder

2. Borderline personality disorder

3. Obsessive-compulsive disorder

4. Generalized anxiety disorder

The correct answer is: Borderline personality disorder

Binge eating is strongly associated with borderline personality disorder due to the characteristics of emotional dysregulation and impulsive behaviors that are prevalent in individuals with this condition. Many people with borderline personality disorder experience difficulties in managing their emotions, which can lead to impulsive actions such as binge eating as a way to cope with these intense feelings. In contrast, while binge eating can be present in other diagnoses, such as major depressive disorder or certain anxiety disorders, it is the impulsivity and the struggles with emotional regulation commonly seen in borderline personality disorder that specifically highlight this criterion. Understanding the relationship between emotional disturbances and eating behaviors is crucial in recognizing the broader implications of the disorder and tailoring appropriate interventions for those affected.