The Relationship between the Cognitive Underpinnings of Addiction and Compulsive Eating Behavior
Jennifer L. Bowler, Mark C. Bowler, John G. Cope

Abstract
Obesity is a national epidemic that jeopardizes individual longevity and incurs significant increases in both healthcare and employee assistance program costs (Anderson, 2008; Cawley, Rizzo, & Haas, 2007). Subsequently, efforts are mounting to encourage healthy lifestyles and support individuals wishing to proactively improve their health (Grawitch, Ledford, Ballard, & Barber, 2009; Heinen & Darling, 2009; Pronk & Kottke, 2009; Quick, 1999). An implicit personality measure may assist in identifying the cognitive biases that present obstacles to these efforts. Specifically, this study examined the relationship between the implicit cognitions related to addiction and an assessment of compulsive eating behavior. Results indicated that reliance on the implicit cognitions related to addiction are significantly related (r = .31) to outcomes associated with overeating. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Full Text: PDF