Evaluating the utility of temporal self-regulation theory for understanding physical activity outcomes in a behavioral weight loss maintenance program.

Objective: Physical activity (PA) is critical for weight loss maintenance (WLM) success. Clarifying mechanisms behind PA engagement may suggest new WLM intervention targets. This study examined an application of temporal self-regulation theory (TST) to enhance our understanding of PA during WLM.

Impact of social connectedness on weight loss outcomes in an online program.

Obesity is linked to many negative health consequences. While online behavioral weight loss programs (BWL) are an effective treatment for obesity, weight losses are modest. Social connectedness has been found to improve weight loss outcomes and previous findings suggests that it may be especially important for people of color.

Feasibility of online behavioral clinical trials: The future of weight management randomized clinical trials?

Objective: Behavioral weight management trials are traditionally conducted in-person. The COVID-19 shutdown halted in-person operations, forcing investigators to develop new methods for remote treatment and assessment delivery without additional funding for website development or remote equipment. This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of remote procedures from an ongoing weight management trial impacted by COVID-19.

Obesity Treatment in African American Churches: Current Treatment Targets and Preferences among Parishioners.

Obesity is prevalent among African Americans, and church-based weight management programs may help address this public health issue. To develop more effective interventions, a survey was administered to members of a large, African American faith-based organization that assessed weight management intervention targets and preferences. Respondents ( = 1,439) represented the Midwestern and Southern United States.

Episodic future thinking, delay discounting, and exercise during weight loss maintenance: The PACE trial.

Objectives: Weight loss maintenance (WLM) is the next major challenge in obesity treatment. While most individuals who lose weight intend to keep their weight off, weight regain is common. Temporal Self-Regulation Theory posits that whether intentions lead to behavior depends on self-regulatory capacity, including delay discounting (DD; the tendency to discount a larger future reward in favor of a smaller immediate reward).

Small Incentives Improve Weight Loss in Women From Disadvantaged Backgrounds.

Introduction: Women from lower-income backgrounds have the highest rates of obesity. Thus, effective programs for this high-risk population are urgently needed. Evidence suggests that adding financial incentives to treatment helps to engage and promote health behavior change in lower-income populations; however, this has never been tested in women for obesity treatment.