The stability of locus of control and self-efficacy during and after a weight reduction intervention and their relation to weight loss and regain

by Coit, Carissa.

ii Robert A. Carels, Advisor Research indicates that locus of control (LOC) and self-efficacy affect numerous health behaviors. However, research examining LOC/self-efficacy, obesity, and weight loss is equivocal. While most research treats LOC as stable across time, studies suggest that LOC and self-efficacy can change in response to life circumstances and/or behavioral interventions. However, the long-term stability of these changes is unknown. Nevertheless, some of the null findings in prior research may be secondary to changes in baseline LOC and self-efficacy in response to treatment. The present study sought to examine changes in LOC and self-efficacy during and after a behavioral weight loss program, and the relationship of those changes with weight loss outcomes. Participants in the current study were 46 obese, sedentary individuals participating in a six-month behavioral weight loss program. The current study found that LOC and self-efficacy were modifiable during a BWLP. However, change in these variables lacked consistent ability to predict weight loss outcomes during and after a BWLP.