9 personality traits of people who regularly overeat, according to a psychologist

Our eating habits are like little mirrors, reflecting more about who we are than we might realize.
It’s not only what we eat that matters but also understanding why, when, and how we eat.
As a psychologist, I’ve spent years noticing the subtle patterns in people who struggle with overeating.
What I’ve seen is that these habits are often rooted in personality traits that shape how we navigate emotions, stress, and even relationships.
So, if you’ve ever wondered what drives those extra bites or late-night cravings, let’s explore this together.
Here are nine personality traits that might be influencing overeating—and some insights to help you make sense of it all.
1) Emotional eaters
It’s widely recognized that emotions can play a big role in eating habits.
Research proves that emotional eating is one of the most common traits in people who regularly overeat.
Emotional eaters tend to use food as a coping mechanism.
Whether they’re dealing with stress, sadness, or even boredom, food becomes a source of comfort.
It’s not always driven by hunger or the need for nutrition.
Eating often provides a sense of emotional fulfillment.
2) Impulsive by nature
In my experience, another common trait among regular overeaters is impulsivity.
I recall a particular patient of mine, let’s call him John.
John was the classic example of someone who acted on impulse, especially when it came to his eating habits.
He wouldn’t plan meals or think ahead about what he was going to eat.
Instead, he would often make spur-of-the-moment decisions based on what he felt like eating right then and there.
More often than not, these decisions led to overeating.
Research backs this up: impulsivity is a trait that can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food.
By acknowledging this trait, strategies can be developed to help manage impulsive eating and foster healthier habits.
3) Perfectionists
Perfectionism is often seen as a positive trait, linked to a high level of attention to detail and a desire for excellence.
However, it can also lead to overeating.
A 2023 study published in the Journal of Eating Disorders discovered a strong link between perfectionism and binge eating.
Those who set unrealistically high standards for themselves, and harshly self-criticize when they don’t meet these standards, are significantly more likely to engage in binge eating as a form of self-punishment or coping mechanism.
In other words, the pursuit of perfection can sometimes lead us down an unhealthy path when it comes to our eating habits.
4) People-pleasers
As a psychologist, I’ve noticed that many people who overeat often have a desire to please others.
They might feel compelled to finish their plate at a dinner party, accept second helpings to be polite, or join in when everyone else is having dessert, even when they’re already full.
This tendency to put others’ expectations and feelings before their own can often lead to overeating.
It’s an understandable struggle, but learning this trait can help individuals set boundaries and prioritize their own health and well-being.
5) High-stress individuals
Life is full of stressors, and how we cope with them can significantly affect our eating habits.
Studies have shown that people who experience high levels of stress often resort to food as a quick relief.
There’s a scientific reason behind this: Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that increases appetite.
When the stress is constant, it can lead to regular overeating.
6) Those struggling with self-esteem
Overeating can often be linked to struggles with self-esteem.
Many people who regularly overeat may not see their own worth beyond their physical appearance or weight.
They might feel that they’re not deserving of love, respect, or care, leading them to neglect their own health.
This is a deeply emotional and complex issue that goes beyond simple eating habits.
It’s a painful reality for many, but acknowledging this trait can be the starting point of a journey towards self-love and acceptance.
7) Night owls
As someone who used to burn the midnight oil, I’ve observed that staying up late can be a trigger for overeating.
Research shows that when we’re tired, our bodies produce more ghrelin – the hunger hormone – which can lead to increased food cravings.
Plus, late-night routines often involve activities like watching TV or browsing the internet, which can easily be paired with mindless snacking.
So, if you’re a night owl like I was, you might find yourself consuming extra calories without even realizing it.
8) Avoiders of discomfort
Some people have a low tolerance for discomfort or pain.
This trait can lead to a reliance on food as a quick and easy way to numb any uncomfortable feelings.
Whether it’s physical discomfort like hunger pangs or emotional discomfort like sadness, these individuals might find themselves reaching for food as a form of escape or distraction.
9) Those lacking self-awareness
The most important trait I’ve observed in people who regularly overeat is a lack of self-awareness.
They often don’t notice when they’re full, eat without thinking, or don’t recognize the emotional triggers that lead to their overeating.
Developing self-awareness around eating habits is crucial in breaking the cycle of overeating.
It’s important to tune into your body’s signals, acknowledge your emotions, and understand the reasons behind your eating habits.
The journey towards healthier eating starts with awareness—it’s as simple and as complex as that.
Final thoughts
Eating habits reveal the stories we tell ourselves, the emotions we try to manage, and the patterns we might not even notice.
And like all stories, they can be rewritten.
The traits I’ve shared aren’t flaws or failures—they’re pieces of the puzzle that make us human.
Carl Rogers said it best: “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
So, whether you’re facing these traits head-on or supporting someone who is, know this: change doesn’t have to be perfect or quick.
It just has to begin.
Each step you take—whether it’s a mindful meal or a moment of self-compassion—is a small victory.
And when it comes to taking care of yourself, even the smallest victories are worth celebrating.