Eating · CBT-E Broad Modules
CBT-E Interpersonal Module
When the ED is doing relational work, food alone won't shift it
The interpersonal maintainer — chronic conflict, life transitions, interpersonal deficits, or grief — is one of the four CBT-E broad modules. When the ED is doing relational work (creating closeness, avoiding closeness, protesting, hiding), treatment has to work the relationship layer too.
Which interpersonal area is most alive right now
- Chronic conflict — same fight, same person, on repeat
- Role transition — job change, move, becoming a parent, empty nest
- Interpersonal deficits — isolation, few close relationships
- Grief — recent or unresolved loss
What the ED is doing in this relationship / area
What the behaviors accomplish relationally
What I'm avoiding by having the ED to focus on
A conversation I'm not having
A boundary I'm not setting
One interpersonal move this week
Move
With whom
Script
Outcome
If the ED is holding a relational job, changing food alone won't work
Ask what the disorder is protecting you from having to say, feel, or lose. Then plan the said, felt, or lost thing directly — with support.