Even if you have dated and have had long term relationships, you may now feel exposed, inexperienced, and insecure. Many people experience a new level of clingyness to their therapist. Sessions can be filled with questions about what's normal and reasonable in relationships. Those who have suffered childhood or other sexual abuse learn and integrate new rules for relating. Slowly, skills are honed.
Assertion is often one of the most important.
Many people with eating disorders think in terms of meeting others' goals and sometimes can't define their own goals at all. For instance, a recovering person may be dating and have the goal of forming a committed relationship, but may be unable to focus on her goal. Rather, she may focus on her partner's goal, which could be to further his career or improve his self-expression. As Stage Five continues, insight develops into why certain relationships haven't worked out. Patterns are explored and changes are made.