Abstract
Despite considerable clinical interest, attempts to link perceived self-efficacy with successful weight control have had mixed success. Definitive data on prospective associations between self-efficacy and weight loss are particularly sparse. This study examined relationships between self-efficacy beliefs, weight control behaviors, and weight change among individuals participating in a weight loss trial (N = 349, 87% women). Cross-sectionally, eating and exercise self-efficacy beliefs were strongly associated with corresponding weight loss behaviors. Self-efficacy beliefs prospectively predicted weight control behavior and weight change during active treatment but not during follow-up. Mediational models indicate that people's weight control behaviors mediate the impact of self-efficacy on weight change.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 282-291 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Health Psychology |
Volume | 25 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - May 2006 |
Keywords
- Self-efficacy
- Weight control behaviors
- Weight loss