A preliminary investigation of the role of self-control in behavioral weight loss treatment

SummarySelf-control is associated with positive health outcomes; however, there is limited information on self-control and weight loss. Thus, the purpose of this preliminary research was to examine how objectively measured self-control operates within the context of a behavioral weight loss program (BWL). Results showed that greater self-control and increases in self-control during BWL treatment were associated with greater weight loss (r's ≥ 0.26; p's < 0.05), better treatment attendance (r's ≥ 0.26; p < 0.05), adherence to a low fat diet (r's≤-0.37; p's < 0.05), and greater increases in physical activity (r's ≥ 0.46; p's < 0.05). These preliminary findings suggest that self-control may play an important role in weight loss success.