What is most likely to trigger a client who is a professional dieter?

A professional dieter often ties their self-worth and identity to their body image and weight outcomes. Therefore, the sensation of feeling "fat" can trigger a strong emotional response, leading to anxious or negative thoughts about their self-image and eating behaviors. This connection is deeply rooted in the dieting mentality, which often associates weight with value, success, and worthiness. When someone has spent a significant amount of time dieting, phrases or internal dialogues around feeling fat could lead to a cycle of restrictive eating, binging, and feelings of guilt or shame.

While other options like uncomfortable emotions or an overscheduled life can also lead to triggering responses, the direct association between feeling fat and the emotional impact on a professional dieter is particularly strong. The focus on body image in the context of intuitive eating emphasizes the need to address these trigger points to foster a healthier relationship with food and self.