The codependent relationships of compulsive eaters and drinkers: Drawing parallels

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Abstract
This study compares compulsive eaters and their spouses with compulsive drinkers and their spouses. Through intensive interviewing, a pattern evolved revealing that these couples are often unable to process feelings and resolve conflicts. In order to cope with the resulting feelings and distance, the IPs, and often their spouses, engage in compulsive behaviors. The spouses' attempts to control and change the IPs' compulsivity exacerbates it; the couples' communication is organized around the compulsive behaviors. Thus, more feelings and conflict result which cannot be expressed constructively and resolved, perpetuating the cycle. The paper offers insight into and operationalizes the codependent nature of these relationships and implications for treatment.

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