Which disorder is characterized by extreme self-control over weight, potentially leading to severe malnourishment?

Anorexia, specifically referred to as anorexia nervosa, is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image that results in excessive restriction of food intake. Individuals with this disorder often engage in extreme self-control regarding their weight and appearance, which can lead to severe malnourishment and various physical health complications. This restriction is not simply a matter of dieting but is often driven by underlying psychological issues related to self-esteem, identity, and control. The focus on maintaining an abnormally low body weight, combined with the inability to recognize the seriousness of their situation, is a hallmark of this condition.

In contrast, bulimia involves episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise, rather than strict self-control over diet. Major depressive disorder is primarily concerned with mood and may involve changes in appetite, but it does not specifically revolve around the extreme control over weight. Catatonia is characterized by abnormal motor behavior and does not directly relate to issues of weight and food intake. Thus, anorexia is distinctly identified by its focus on extreme weight control and the severe health risks that can ensue.