Compensatory Behaviors

Definition

Compensatory behaviors are actions that individuals engage in to counteract or "compensate" for the effects of certain behaviors, such as binge eating. These behaviors are often used to prevent weight gain or manage feelings of guilt and can include forced vomiting, excessive exercise, or strict dieting.

Related terms

Purging: Purging is a specific type of compensatory behavior where individuals rid their bodies of food by self-induced vomiting or using laxatives/diuretics.

Excessive Exercise: Excessive exercise is another form of compensatory behavior where individuals engage in intense physical activity to burn off calories consumed during binge eating episodes.

Restrictive Dieting: Restrictive dieting refers to severely limiting food intake or following strict dietary rules as a way to compensate for previous overeating episodes.