What symptom differentiates bulimia nervosa from binge eating disorder?

The distinguishing symptom that sets bulimia nervosa apart from binge eating disorder is the engagement in compensatory behaviors. Individuals with bulimia nervosa often experience episodes of binge eating, where they consume large amounts of food in a short period, followed by attempts to prevent weight gain through various compensatory actions. These behaviors can include self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, or misuse of laxatives or diuretics.

In contrast, while those with binge eating disorder do experience episodes of overeating, they do not engage in these compensatory behaviors. This lack of compensatory actions is a key factor that differentiates the two disorders. The focus on weight control and the psychological distress that accompanies bulimia, related to these compensatory strategies, underscores its defining characteristics, making this choice the correct answer.