Application of three different coaching strategies for people with emotional eating 83 4 RQ2: which coaching strategy – validating, focus-on-change, or dialectical – matches the needs of people with emotional eating “when experiencing cravings”, and to what extent is that strategy perceived as helpful by the participants? Condition “Validation & experiencing cravings” Participants recognized two different forms of validation in this condition: validation of emotions and validation of behaviour. Empathy | Participants experienced positive feelings and expressed that it feels good to get a compliment. They felt that the empathy offered by the virtual coach was warm and soothing. This also applied to participants that disapproved of their own eating behaviour. Very understanding. Anita immediately regains trust and she will not take the cookies either (anval-53). Empowerment | It reinforced their self-confidence. It acepted them as they were – the coaches’ support made them feel proud of themselves. Getting compliments about having made the right choice will increase your selfesteem and self-confidence. It will make it easier to stick to this feeling the next time (anval-53). Non-judgmental | Participants indicated that they didn’t see the point of validation, but still they appreciated it. It was a good feeling to be accepted as they really were, and their emotions were being taken seriously. It’s nice to talk to someone or to get a response when you’re about to eat. Nice that someone thinks along (andial-75). Validation of behaviour turned out to be a well-appreciated coaching strategy in a craving situation. It activated feelings of pride and delivered positive reinforcement because Anita (the persona in the vignette) was able to leave the cookies in the jar. It reinforced the decision taken. It was very supportive and confirmed and rewarded positive behaviour. Identifies good behaviour and states that she can feel proud by persevering (anval-53).
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