Which of the following is a characteristic of Binge-Eating Disorder?

Binge-Eating Disorder is characterized primarily by episodes of binge eating that occur frequently and consistently. Specifically, the DSM-5 specifies that binge eating must occur at least once a week over a period of three months. During these episodes, individuals consume an unusually large amount of food in a discrete period and experience a lack of control over their eating. This frequency and time frame are critical for the diagnosis and help distinguish Binge-Eating Disorder from other eating disorders.

The other attributes mentioned in the other choices do not apply to Binge-Eating Disorder. Inappropriate compensatory behaviors, such as purging or excessive exercise, are characteristic of Bulimia Nervosa rather than Binge-Eating Disorder. While individuals with Binge-Eating Disorder may engage in dieting, it is not a required feature for diagnosis. Furthermore, hospitalization is not a standard requirement for treatment of Binge-Eating Disorder; many individuals can be treated on an outpatient basis, depending on the severity of their condition. Thus, the specification of binge eating occurring at least once a week for three months serves as the key diagnostic criterion for Binge-Eating Disorder.