A satisfaction enhancement intervention for long-term weight loss.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects of two satisfaction enhancement interventions for weight control on behavioral and weight changes among individuals in a 15-month weight loss program. The primary hypothesis was that long-term weight loss would be improved by an intervention that enhances perceived satisfaction with achieved outcomes.

RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Men and women (331) were randomized to weight control programs comprised of diet and exercise counseling and a cognitive intervention that emphasized either comparing experienced outcomes with expectation of ideal outcomes or comparing experienced outcomes with pretreatment status. The latter was expected to cause greater satisfaction with weight loss progress.

RESULTS

The intervention manipulation was not successful in influencing cognitions, satisfaction, or weight change.

DISCUSSION: The potential for intervening on satisfaction per se for the purpose of achieving greater or more sustained weight loss remains to be demonstrated.