Fifteen Tendencies Often Present in Compulsive Eaters

1. Loneliness in all relationships
    a) Inability to experience intimacy

2. Presence of fear of authority figures or being controlled by another person
    a) Difficulty in maintaining a "sense of self".

3. Possible history of abuse
    a) Neglect of emotional needs
    b) Verbal Abuse (overt or covert)
    c) Sexual Abuse

4. Early "rejection" of the opposite sex

5 . If a male Compulsive Overeater, possible over-identification with mother
    a) Over-involved emotionally

6. Tendency towards "Social Anxiety"
    a) Tend to isolate and use food as a "friend"
    b) After social situations, relieve anxiety by bingeing or overeating

7. A history of "diet failures"

8 . Preference for food instead of other activities
    a) Food is friend
    b) Food is hobby

9. History of Guilt/Shame
    a) Parents used guilt as a form of control
    b) Life filled with "shoulds," "oughts," "always" and "nevers"

10. Possible other addictions
    a) Sugar
    b) Prescription Drugs
    c) Alcohol
    d) Sex

11. A long-term, unhappy marriage or other significant relationship
    a) Food becomes a point of intimacy instead of spouse
    b) Food to cope with conflict
    c) Food to fill a void

12. Long-standing relationship difficulties
    a) Avoidance of conflict

13. Difficulty dealing with Anger
    a) Internalization of anger
    b) Ends in resentment

14. "Loving Heart" has been damaged (hurt)
    a) The compassionate heart is buried, though still present

15. Hunger for acceptance and love