A client diagnosed with anorexia nervosa virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and lost a significant amount of body weight. A nurse asks, “What do you think about your present weight and how you look?” Which response by the client is most consistent with the diagnosis?

Choice A reason: This response reflects mild body dissatisfaction but not the distorted body image typical of anorexia nervosa. Clients with anorexia often deny the severity of their weight loss. Choice B reason: While this reflects poor self-esteem, it does not specifically indicate the body image distortion central to anorexia nervosa. Choice C reason: This response shows avoidance but lacks the hallmark cognitive distortion about weight and shape. Choice D reason: This is the most consistent response. Clients with anorexia nervosa often acknowledge being underweight but express a desire to maintain or further reduce their weight, reflecting the core psychopathology of the disorder.