**Question:** False regarding Anorexia nervosa -

A. Anorexia nervosa is a condition characterized by excessive weight loss and fear of gaining weight.
B. Anorexia nervosa primarily affects men.
C. Anorexia nervosa is associated with a normal or high body mass index (BMI).
D. Anorexia nervosa is a self-inflicted condition.

**Correct Answer:** D. Anorexia nervosa is a self-inflicted condition.

**Core Concept:** Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain, leading to intentionally decreased food intake and excessive exercise to maintain a significantly low body weight. It is primarily seen in females, with a gender ratio of around 10:1 between males and females. The condition is associated with a significantly low BMI, as opposed to a normal or high BMI.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Anorexia nervosa is a self-inflicted condition, meaning the individuals suffering from this disorder intentionally engage in behaviors to lose weight and avoid gaining weight, often due to a distorted body image and intense fear of obesity. This is a crucial distinction from other conditions like cachexia or malnutrition caused by medical illnesses, which are involuntary and unrelated to fear of weight gain.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. The statement "Anorexia nervosa is a condition characterized by excessive weight loss and fear of gaining weight" is incorrect because excessive weight loss is not a defining feature of anorexia nervosa. Instead, the primary focus is on the fear of weight gain and the resulting self-induced weight loss.

B. Anorexia nervosa affects both men and women. Although it is more common in females, the statement "Anorexia nervosa primarily affects men" is incorrect, as it is more prevalent in women due to societal pressures and body image concerns.

C. The statement "Anorexia nervosa is associated with a normal or high body mass index (BMI)" is incorrect because individuals with anorexia nervosa typically have a significantly low BMI, reflecting severe weight loss and malnutrition.

**Clinical Pearl:** Anorexia nervosa is a complex condition influenced by psychological, social, and biological factors. Understanding the core features of the condition, such as the fear of weight gain and the resulting self-induced weight loss, is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning. Recognizing the gender disparity and the association with low BMI is crucial in identifying patients who may be at risk for anorexia nervosa and providing appropriate support and interventions.