Body Checking & Avoidance Log
A CBT-E informed worksheet listing common body checking and avoidance behaviours, with a weekly log of frequency, feelings and urges, and a reduction goal.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · CBT-E · Body image
- Approach / concern
- Body Image & Eating
- Technique
- CBT-E · Body image
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Body Checking & Avoidance Log?
Body checking and body avoidance are behaviours that maintain over-evaluation of shape and weight in eating disorders. Checking magnifies perceived flaws, while avoidance prevents disconfirmation of fears. Monitoring these behaviours is a key step in the body image module of CBT-E.
Why it works
Body checking and avoidance are common in eating disorders and are associated with greater shape and weight concern (Shafran et al., 2004). Reducing them is part of the evidence-based CBT-E approach to over-evaluation of shape and weight (Fairburn, 2008).
When to use it
- Eating disorders with shape and weight concern
- Body dysmorphic concerns (adapted)
- Body image work in recovery
- Clients unaware of how often they check
How to use it in session
- Explain how checking and avoidance maintain worry.
- Identify the client’s specific behaviours.
- Monitor for a week without trying to change.
- Choose one behaviour to reduce gradually.
- Review feelings and urges over time.
Clinician tips
- Many clients are surprised by the frequency of checking.
- Address avoidance gradually, like exposure.
- Weekly weighing in session may replace frequent home weighing in CBT-E.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Why is avoiding mirrors a problem if checking is too?
Avoidance stops you from getting a realistic view of your body and keeps fear high. Balanced, ordinary mirror use is the goal.
Is this suitable for body dysmorphic disorder?
The principles overlap, but BDD has specific treatment approaches. Use with clinical guidance.
References
Shafran, R., Fairburn, C. G., Robinson, P., & Lask, B. (2004). Body checking and its avoidance in eating disorders. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 35(1), 93-101.
Fairburn, C. G. (2008). Cognitive behavior therapy and eating disorders. Guilford Press.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
