Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Efficacy of Emphasizing Peer Relationships in a Facebook-based Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention for College Students

Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Efficacy of Emphasizing Peer Relationships in a Facebook-based Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention for College Students PDF Author: LaNaya M. Anderson
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : College students
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Approximately 37% of college students are overweight or obese (American College Health Association, 2021), and as a result, may face adverse health consequences (Kopelman, 2007) and psychosocial consequences (Wyatt, Winters & Dubbert, 2006). Despite college students' need and reported desire to lose weight to avoid the short and long-term consequences of obesity, standard behavioral weight loss treatments designed for adult populations have not proven to be as effective with a college student population (Plotnikoff et al., 2015). Some studies have explored ways to adapt the standard behavioral weight loss treatment (BWL) to college students and emerging adult populations, with some success (e.g., Gokee-Larose et al., 2019; Napolitano et al., 2013). The purpose of the current study was to replicate an adapted standard BWL treatment to a college student population and improve upon it by adding an emphasis on peer interaction with the aim of increasing social support and treatment engagement. As an early stage of treatment development, the current study aimed to assess the treatments' feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy using a randomized-control format. Eighty college students were enrolled and randomized into one of three arms, waitlist control (n = 26), the replicated adapted BWL treatment, HEAT (n = 26), and the adapted BWL treatment with an emphasis on peer interaction, HEAT-PEER (n = 28). There were significant differences between the groups on all weight-related variables. The HEAT group appeared acceptable and somewhat efficacious with an average weight loss of 3.83 pounds, but it was not feasible, with only 46% of participants meeting intervention completion standards. The HEAT-PEER group also appeared to be acceptable, was more efficacious with an average weight loss of 9.10 pounds, and feasible, with 89% of participants meeting intervention completion standards. Secondary analyses on treatment engagement, peer interaction, and behavioral changes were also assessed. Results indicate that adding an emphasis on peer interaction to an adapted BWL treatment is feasible, acceptable, and preliminarily efficacious and may provide benefits beyond those found in previous research with a college student population.

Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Efficacy of Emphasizing Peer Relationships in a Facebook-based Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention for College Students

Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Efficacy of Emphasizing Peer Relationships in a Facebook-based Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention for College Students PDF Author: LaNaya M. Anderson
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : College students
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Approximately 37% of college students are overweight or obese (American College Health Association, 2021), and as a result, may face adverse health consequences (Kopelman, 2007) and psychosocial consequences (Wyatt, Winters & Dubbert, 2006). Despite college students' need and reported desire to lose weight to avoid the short and long-term consequences of obesity, standard behavioral weight loss treatments designed for adult populations have not proven to be as effective with a college student population (Plotnikoff et al., 2015). Some studies have explored ways to adapt the standard behavioral weight loss treatment (BWL) to college students and emerging adult populations, with some success (e.g., Gokee-Larose et al., 2019; Napolitano et al., 2013). The purpose of the current study was to replicate an adapted standard BWL treatment to a college student population and improve upon it by adding an emphasis on peer interaction with the aim of increasing social support and treatment engagement. As an early stage of treatment development, the current study aimed to assess the treatments' feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy using a randomized-control format. Eighty college students were enrolled and randomized into one of three arms, waitlist control (n = 26), the replicated adapted BWL treatment, HEAT (n = 26), and the adapted BWL treatment with an emphasis on peer interaction, HEAT-PEER (n = 28). There were significant differences between the groups on all weight-related variables. The HEAT group appeared acceptable and somewhat efficacious with an average weight loss of 3.83 pounds, but it was not feasible, with only 46% of participants meeting intervention completion standards. The HEAT-PEER group also appeared to be acceptable, was more efficacious with an average weight loss of 9.10 pounds, and feasible, with 89% of participants meeting intervention completion standards. Secondary analyses on treatment engagement, peer interaction, and behavioral changes were also assessed. Results indicate that adding an emphasis on peer interaction to an adapted BWL treatment is feasible, acceptable, and preliminarily efficacious and may provide benefits beyond those found in previous research with a college student population.

Exploring the Feasibility, Acceptability and Preliminary Efficacy of a Peer-led Body Image and Eating Disorder Program Among College Students

Exploring the Feasibility, Acceptability and Preliminary Efficacy of a Peer-led Body Image and Eating Disorder Program Among College Students PDF Author: Kristen Diane Lohse
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Body image disturbance
Languages : en
Pages : 152

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Book Description
Eating disorders (ED) and body image (BI) concerns are becoming increasingly prevalent on college campuses. EDs impact one’s mental, physical, social and academic functioning. Research has only recently begun looking into programs that address EDs and BI concerns among college students. This study examines the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of The Body Positive, an 8-week peer-led body image and eating disorder program.

An Evaluation of the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Technology-based Pilot Program to Reduce Overweight and Obesity Among College Students

An Evaluation of the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Technology-based Pilot Program to Reduce Overweight and Obesity Among College Students PDF Author: Christine Sumie Sugimoto
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 97

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Book Description
Background: One-third of US undergraduate students are overweight or obese, and weight gain may occur during the college years. Thus, there is a need for weight loss interventions for college students. Innovative technology-based programs may be a promising strategy to promote weight loss. Weight management interventions incorporating technology have been implemented in US university settings, with varying degrees of success. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of a pilot technology-based weight loss program to reduce overweight and obesity among college students. Methods: The pilot study investigated the effectiveness of a technology-based weight loss intervention on reducing body mass index (BMI) among college students. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: (1) an 8-week technology-based weight loss program or (2) an 8-week email education program. A mixed methods approach, including online surveys and focus groups, was employed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the pilot study. Feasibility was measured through recruitment and retention data and participant engagement. Results: Twenty undergraduate students (90% female, age 20.4 ± 1.4 years, BMI 32.1 ± 4.6 kg/m2) participated in the study. The retention rate for the study was 95%, with 90% of the intervention group and 100% of the control group completing the 8-week assessments. The technology-based program was acceptable to the students. In addition, over half the respondents in the intervention group indicated that text messaging was most helpful as well as the website, exercise videos, nutrition facts, and smartphone applications. There were mixed responses about the forum, which was underutilized. Participants in the intervention group expressed a desire for additional accountability, support, and motivation and suggested using Skype group chats and mobile accessibility to further facilitate interaction among group members. Conclusion: Technology-based weight loss interventions, which include a central peer support component and mobile accessibility, are a promising strategy for recruiting, retaining, and engaging overweight and obese college students. Further research is needed to enhance the development of effective technology-based programs for students.

Facebook as Social Supprt for a One-time Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students

Facebook as Social Supprt for a One-time Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students PDF Author: Erica Seely
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 234

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Book Description
Approximately 32% of college-aged individuals are overweight or obese, yet few weight loss programs have effectively motivated this population to adopt a healthier lifestyle. A majority of this population frequently uses the social networking site Facebook. This study examined the impact of a Facebook social support group on weight loss efforts of college students. A total of 24 students were randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which consisted of a Facebook support group, or control group after attending a one-time weight loss class. Assessments were taken at baseline and four weeks. Of participants in this study, 83.3% were Facebook users. All but two participants were female with 47.8% identifying as black, non-Hispanic and 39.1% as white, non-Hispanic. Most participants were considered obese or overweight with 39-inch median waist circumference for women and 44-inch median waist circumference for men. The primary outcome was a mean weight loss of -3.55 ± 4.25 lbs. for those in the intervention group compared to -1.61 ± 3.24 lbs. for the control group after four weeks. Though results were not statistically significant, the intervention group lost more weight than the control group. Results indicate the potential for an innovative weight loss aid that utilizes an online site already integrated into the lifestyle of college students.

Social Support in an Internet-based Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students

Social Support in an Internet-based Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students PDF Author: Yijia Zhang
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Objective: To assess college students’ perceptions regarding online social support in an 8-week Internet-based weight loss intervention. Participants: Participants were those randomized to the intervention group of an online weight loss intervention targeting overweight and obese college students. Methods: Members of the intervention group had access to a private discussion forum and weekly live chat sessions, allowing for anonymous interactions. Following the 8-week intervention, intervention group members were invited to complete an online focus group, discussing these tools. The transcripts were directly copied from the live chat conversation history. Using thematic analysis, perceptions regarding online social support were identified, coded and sorted and organized into themes. Results: Two online focus groups were conducted (n=7, overall). Thematic analysis indicated that participants appreciated the social support provided by the forum and live chat sessions. While many preferred the interactive feature of the live chat sessions, others enjoyed the constant availability of the forum. However, barriers including time restrictions, technology-related preferences, and concerns about online interpersonal relationships were also identified. Conclusions: Combining forum and live chat sessions may benefit individuals differently, based on preference, and both should likely be incorporated into an online weight loss intervention.

Beyond Calorie Tracking

Beyond Calorie Tracking PDF Author: Christina Chwyl
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Clinical psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Background: Many individuals do not achieve clinically significant weight loss following traditional lifestyle modification interventions, potentially because weight loss is dependent upon calorie tracking compliance (to achieve calorie prescriptions), which decreases over time for most. By contrast, non-energy restricted plant-based diets have been demonstrated to promote clinically significant weight loss even without calorie prescriptions. Methods: This pilot trial is the first to empirically test a remotely delivered whole food plant-based diet (WFPBD) lifestyle modification intervention for adults with overweight or obesity. Over 12-weeks, participants (N = 22) followed a non-energy restricted WFPBD and received nutritional counseling and behavioral weight loss intervention. Participants were recruited in two phases. After Phase 1 (n = 7) participant feedback was gathered, and relevant changes were made. The revised intervention was delivered in Phase 2 (n = 15). Assessments occurred at baseline, mid-treatment, and post-treatment. Data were analyzed using an intent-to-treat approach. Results: Feasibility and acceptability of the newly developed intervention was achieved: attrition was low (9.1%) and acceptability was high (mean acceptability: 4.43 out of 5). In Phase 1, a small proportion (22.9%) of participants achieved 5% weight loss, whereas in Phase 2, the majority of participants (69.3%) met this benchmark. Mean weight loss was clinically meaningful for Phase 2 participants (5.89 ℗ł .68 kg). Preliminary effectiveness of the intervention on waist circumference, dietary adherence, and quality of life was also achieved. Preliminary support for family support, family sabotage, friend sabotage and self-compassion (but not internal disinhibition or plant-based diet familiarity) as moderators of intervention effects was found. Conclusion: A 12-week remotely delivered intervention prescribing a non-energy restricted WFPBD was found to be feasible and acceptable and led to clinically relevant changes in weight, waist circumference, dietary adherence, and quality of life.

Generating Sustainable Weight Loss

Generating Sustainable Weight Loss PDF Author: Michael J. Bordieri
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 119

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Book Description
Two thirds of Americans are overweight or obese. Traditional obesity interventions (e.g. drug therapy, diets, behavior therapy) generate moderate short-term weight loss but have little evidence of long-term weight maintenance. The cultural phenomenon of "yo-yo dieting" mirrors empirical findings which suggest that weight loss, albeit demanding, is a far easier process to target than weight maintenance. The present study sought to evaluate the efficacy of an acceptance-based behavioral intervention designed to generate improvements in psychological health and quality of life in obese and overweight adults as well as encourage gradual and sustainable weight loss. While no significant immediate weight loss was observed following the intervention, significant improvements in general psychological health, reductions in anxiety and escape maintained eating, and increases in weight related acceptance and action were found in the treatment group (n = 9) compared to a wait list control group (n = 10). These findings suggest that an acceptance based intervention targeting wide band outcomes might serve as a viable alternative to traditional approaches targeting only immediate weight loss.

An Examination of an Acceptance-based Behavioral Intervention for Obesity Prevention in at Risk College Females

An Examination of an Acceptance-based Behavioral Intervention for Obesity Prevention in at Risk College Females PDF Author: Shawn Nicole Katterman
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Clinical psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 228

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Book Description
Thesis (PhD, Clinical psychology)--Drexel University, 2012.

Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Persuasive Technology

Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Persuasive Technology PDF Author: Association for Computing Machinery
Publisher:
ISBN: 9781605583761
Category : Health promotion
Languages : en
Pages : 279

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Book Description
Persuasive 2009; 4th International Conference on Persuasive Technology Apr 26, 2009-Apr 29, 2009 Claremont, USA. You can view more information about this proceeding and all of ACMs other published conference proceedings from the ACM Digital Library: http://www.acm.org/dl.

Early Childhood Obesity Prevention Policies

Early Childhood Obesity Prevention Policies PDF Author: Institute of Medicine
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309210283
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 202

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Book Description
Childhood obesity is a serious health problem that has adverse and long-lasting consequences for individuals, families, and communities. The magnitude of the problem has increased dramatically during the last three decades and, despite some indications of a plateau in this growth, the numbers remain stubbornly high. Efforts to prevent childhood obesity to date have focused largely on school-aged children, with relatively little attention to children under age 5. However, there is a growing awareness that efforts to prevent childhood obesity must begin before children ever enter the school system. Early Childhood Obesity Prevention Policies reviews factors related to overweight and obese children from birth to age 5, with a focus on nutrition, physical activity, and sedentary behavior, and recommends policies that can alter children's environments to promote the maintenance of healthy weight. Because the first years of life are important to health and well-being throughout the life span, preventing obesity in infants and young children can contribute to reversing the epidemic of obesity in children and adults. The book recommends that health care providers make parents aware of their child's excess weight early. It also suggests that parents and child care providers keep children active throughout the day, provide them with healthy diets, limit screen time, and ensure children get adequate sleep. In addition to providing comprehensive solutions to tackle the problem of obesity in infants and young children, Early Childhood Obesity Prevention Policies identifies potential actions that could be taken to implement those recommendations. The recommendations can inform the decisions of state and local child care regulators, child care providers, health care providers, directors of federal and local child care and nutrition programs, and government officials at all levels.