Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R18/R21) — Eating Behavior Assessment
Likert options measuring cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating and emotional eating.
The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R18/R21) is a validated nutrition and diet assessment tool designed to measure three core aspects of eating behavior: cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating, and emotional eating. This concise self-report questionnaire is widely used in clinical nutrition, weight-management programs, and behavioral research to identify patterns that influence dietary choices, weight control, and the relationship with food.
By answering a short series of Likert-style items, you will receive a clear, numerical profile across the three eating-behavior domains to help inform personalized nutrition strategies, mindful eating interventions, or referral to a dietitian or therapist. The TFEQ-R18/R21 test is ideal for anyone seeking insight into their eating habits, whether you are focused on weight management, emotional triggers, or improving overall dietary behavior.
I deliberately restrict the amount of food I eat to influence my weight or shape.
Measures conscious dietary restraint and portion control.
I consciously control my eating in order to manage my weight.
I avoid eating when I am hungry to control my weight.
I deliberately eat less than I would like to avoid gaining weight.
I plan or track my food intake to control my weight.
Planning and monitoring behavior that supports dietary restraint.
I eat smaller portions than I would like to control my weight.
When I start eating, I have difficulty stopping.
Assesses tendency toward loss of control while eating.
I feel an overwhelming urge to eat when I see or smell palatable foods.
I often eat more than I had planned.
I get distracted while eating and then realize I have eaten more than intended.
Measures awareness and control during eating episodes.
I am easily tempted by food cues (sight, smell, social cues) to eat even when not hungry.
I eat in response to environmental cues rather than internal hunger signals.
I find it difficult to resist high-calorie or very tasty foods.
I feel a loss of control over my eating during the day.
I frequently eat until I feel uncomfortably full.
I eat more when I feel anxious, nervous, or stressed.
Measures emotional eating in response to negative affect.
I eat more when I am feeling sad or depressed.
I eat to comfort myself when I am upset.
Frequently asked questions
The TFEQ-R18/R21 is a standardized self-report assessment used to measure three dimensions of eating behavior: cognitive restraint (intentional restriction of food intake), uncontrolled eating (loss of control and overeating), and emotional eating (eating in response to negative emotions). It is commonly used in nutrition research, clinical settings, and weight-management programs.
This short form of the TFEQ contains 18 items and typically takes 3–7 minutes to complete. Questions use a simple Likert scale response, making it quick and easy to score.
Scores are produced for three subscales: cognitive restraint (0–18), uncontrolled eating (0–27), and emotional eating (0–9), plus a combined total (0–54). Higher scores indicate a stronger tendency in that domain. Use subscale profiles to guide interventions (e.g., mindful eating for uncontrolled eating, stress management for emotional eating).
No. The TFEQ is a screening and assessment tool that provides insight into eating behavior patterns. It is not a diagnostic instrument for eating disorders. If your results indicate concerning patterns (e.g., very high uncontrolled or emotional eating), consult a healthcare professional, registered dietitian, or mental health provider for a comprehensive evaluation.
Yes. Retaking the questionnaire after 6–12 weeks can help track changes in eating behavior following interventions such as behavioral therapy, dietary changes, or stress-reduction strategies. Use the subscores to monitor targeted improvements.
Use your subscale profile to tailor strategies: increase structured meal planning and portion control if uncontrolled eating is high; replace rigid dieting with flexible meal plans if restraint is excessively high; and adopt stress-management and alternative coping skills if emotional eating is prominent. Working with a registered dietitian or therapist can provide personalized guidance.
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