The Effect of Body-Focused Positive Psychology Interventions on Behavioural Intentions, Body Esteem, and Body Compassion

Abstract

Positive psychology interventions increase well-being and some health outcomes. In this experimental study, we assessed three positive psychology interventions (nostalgia, gratitude, and best possible self (BPS) as a means to manage weight, diet and activity and increase body esteem. Participants (n = 178) who had gained weight during the pandemic were randomly assigned to one of four interventions: nostalgia, gratitude, BPS, or control. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention measures of behavioural intentions and body esteem, as well as outcome measures of body compassion and affect. The results showed significant differences by intervention for intention to lose weight, intention to diet, intention to exercise, body kindness, and positive and negative affect. The BPS intervention increased intention to lose weight, whereas the gratitude intervention increased intention to exercise, aspects of body compassion, positive affect, but reduced the intention to lose weight and negative affect. Overall, positive psychology interventions promote body compassion and positive health behaviour intentions and therefore may have the potential to help manage weight.