A self-teaching weight-control manual: Method for increasing compliance and reducing obesity

A self-teaching weight-control manual has been developed, which combines nutrition education and behavior modification approaches to help readers lose weight, learn nutrition principles, and make use of self-control techniques. It contains a package of intervention strategies that the patients can tailor to meet their specific needs. 'Behavioral techniques provide the tools necessary to reduce stress and to cope with individual problems, including both operant and cognitive methods. Strategies that address and prepare the individual for the possibility of relapse are included to promote long-term maintenance. A study was conducted to evaluate the manual's effectiveness when used either independently or as an adjunct to professional classroom teaching. There was no significant difference found between the treatment methods in terms of outcome as measured by the Feinstein Weight Reduction Index. The findings also demonstrated an association between success in weight loss and reduced stress, increased use of self-control skills, and increased nutrition knowledge. These variables were measured through pre-/posttest questionnaire indices designed to assess the participants' use of the approaches advocated in the manual. A significantly greater weight reduction among those whose obesity was of shorter duration and lesser magnitude pointed up the importance of early intervention.