Relationship between motivation for weight loss and dieting and binge eating in a representative population survey.

Objective: To investigate the relationship between reasons for weight loss and previous dieting attempts and current binge-eating episodes in overweight and obese individuals.

Method: For the n = 355 interviewees of a representative sample of Swiss inhabitants (n = 1,000) reporting a body mass index (BMI) of ≥25, the Weight Loss Motivation Questionnaire--distinguishing between the three scales: health, appearance in relation to oneself, and appearance in relation to others--was assessed. Pearson's and Spearman's rank correlation coefficients and the partial correlation coefficient controlling for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and BMI were calculated.

Increasing the motivation for physical activity in obese patients.

Objective: In this randomized controlled study, a standardized motivation intervention was compared with a relaxation intervention with regard to its effectiveness in decreasing dropout rates and increasing physical activity in a sample of obese patients.

Method: Thirty-eight obese participants were randomly assigned to a one-session motivation or relaxation intervention. Thereafter, both groups participated in an 8-week aerobic program.