Features of automaticity in eating behavior

Objective

Some authors (e.g. Cohen & Farley, 2008) have argued that control of eating behavior is difficult because this behavior could be an automatic one. Our objective was to test this claim in an experimental design.

Method

Automaticity can be diagnosed by looking for the presence of its features in performance or processes. We designed an experiment to test the features of uncontrollability and unconsciousness.

Results

Results showed that individuals' success in controlling their behavior does not depend on their goal or the instruction received (uncontrollability), although individuals believe their goals justify their behavior (unconsciousness). High scores on cognitive restraint were predictive for the success in control of eating behavior.

Conclusion

Eating has features of automatic behavior, thus can be diagnosed as such. Our results bear important implications for the research and practice concerning eating behavior, especially obesity.