Why Control Feels Safer Than Self-Trust in Eating Disorders (& How to Rebuild It)
In the world of eating disorders, control often feels safer than trusting yourself. Restricting food, over-exercising, or rigid routines may seem protective, but they usually mask deeper fears and unmet emotional needs. Understanding this dynamic is key to recovery.
The Psychodynamic Roots of Control in Eating Disorders 🧠
Psychodynamic therapy emphasises how unconscious processes, early attachment experiences, and past trauma shape current behaviours. Many individuals with eating disorders develop control strategies as a way to cope with feelings of vulnerability or emotional neglect in childhood.
Early attachment experiences: Inconsistent or critical caregiving can make trusting oneself feel unsafe.
Unresolved trauma or emotional conflict: Restrictive or rigid behaviours create a sense of predictability when emotions feel overwhelming.
Research shows that addressing these underlying psychodynamic issues can reduce the reliance on control and improve self-trust (Butterfly Foundation Australia).
Why Control Feels Safer
Control gives the illusion of safety. In eating disorders, this might look like:
Strict meal rules
Over-exercising
Monitoring body weight obsessively
While these strategies temporarily reduce anxiety, they interfere with building trust in your own body and feelings. Psychodynamic therapy helps uncover the “why” behind control, creating space for self-compassion and emotional growth.
Rebuilding Self-Trust with Psychodynamic Therapy
Explore Past Experiences: Work with a therapist to understand how early life experiences shape your current relationship with food, body, and control.
Identify Unconscious Patterns: Recognise repetitive behaviours and emotional triggers that reinforce control.
Develop Compassion for Yourself: Psychodynamic approaches encourage self-understanding rather than self-blame.
Practice Gradual Letting-Go: Start small, trust your body with small decisions around food or movement and reflect on the outcome.
Studies show that psychodynamic therapy can help individuals with eating disorders develop healthier coping strategies and reduce compulsive control behaviours. Check out Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) list of approved treatment modalities for eating disorders.
Moving Forward
Control may feel safe, but true resilience and healing come from rebuilding trust in yourself. With psychodynamic therapy, you can explore the roots of control, uncover hidden emotional needs, and take steps toward freedom from rigid patterns.
If you or someone you care about struggles with eating disorders, consider connecting with one of our credentialed Eating Disorder Clinicians to start this compassionate journey toward self-trust. Contact us from anywhere in Australia by submitting a form, and one of our friendly staff members will contact you shortly.
Note: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is NOT intended as medical /psychological advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.
