Which disorder is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight?

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image that results in self-imposed starvation and excessive weight loss. Individuals with this disorder often see themselves as overweight even when they are underweight. This fear of weight gain is often accompanied by a preoccupation with food, dieting, and body size.

The disorder involves restrictive eating behaviors, which can lead to severe health complications over time, including malnutrition and various physical health issues. Understanding this intense fear is crucial for recognizing the symptoms and distinguishing anorexia nervosa from other eating disorders.

While binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, and body dysmorphic disorder may involve concerns about weight or body image, they do not share the same primary characteristic of an intense fear of gaining weight, making anorexia nervosa the most accurate answer to the question.