Social Cognitive Reactions to Considering Participation in Weight‐Management Interventions

Abstract

This study investigated social cognitive reactions and individual‐difference factors associated with selecting a traditional diet intervention (TDI) and a nondiet (NDI) intervention. Participants read balanced descriptions of typical TDI and NDI interventions, and subsequently completed a questionnaire assessing selection of intervention, self‐efficacy (SE), and outcome expectations (OE) for each approach; body image (BI); and demographics. MANOVA procedures revealed that selection of intervention moderated ratings of SE and OE for each intervention. In addition, MANOVA procedures revealed a 3‐way interaction between intervention selection, intervention rating, and weight status. A MANOVA also revealed that selection groups differed on the overweight preoccupation subscale of the BI measure. Social cognitions and aspects of body image may provide useful information about readiness for weight‐management approaches.