Motivation, self-determination, and long-term weight control

Abstract

This article explores the topics of motivation and self-regulation in the context of weight management and related behaviors. We focus on the role of a qualitative approach to address motivation - not only considering the level but also type of motivation - in weight control and related behaviors. We critically discuss the operationalization of motivation in current weight control programs, present a complementary approach to understanding motivation based on self-determination theory, and review empirical findings from weight control studies that have used self-determination theory measures and assessed their association with weight outcomes. Weight loss studies which used Motivational Interviewing (MI) are also reviewed, considering MI's focus on enhancing internal motivation. We hypothesize that current weight control interventions may have been less successful with weight maintenance in part due to their relative disregard of qualitative dimensions of motivation, such as level of perceived autonomy, often resulting in a motivational disconnect between weight loss and weight-related behaviors. We suggest that if individuals fully endorse weight loss-related behavioral goals and feel not just competent but also autonomous about reaching them, as suggested by self-determination theory, their efforts are more likely to result in long-lasting behavior change.

Self-Experiencing “The Healthiest Weight”

“…If individuals fully endorse weight loss-related behavioural goals and feel more competent and autonomous (self-determination theory), their efforts are more likely to result in long-lasting behaviour change [8]. Both calorie in (meals) / out (work outs) were self-monitored by easy to use mobile apps [9] and subjected to calibration in case of metabolic adaptation [10].…”

“…Experiment tracking was crucial. However, mobile technology allowed a close interaction [17], providing autonomy [8] and strengthening motivation [18]. While studies show that ~80% of people are not able to keep weight loss long, likely due to lack of motivation over time [3], the implementation of any choice of food/activity (personal preference vs pre-established diets/routines) and simple rewarding strategies are probably the keys for building up positive-thinking and long-term motivation [19], as well as successful habit-formation [20], achieved 8-10weeks after implementation.…”

Group motivational interviewing in the Small Changes weight management project: a quasi-experimental trial

“…SDT [12] posits that it is the intrinsic motivation of an individual that is strongest in terms of change -which resonates with the MI therapists attempt to uncover and strengthen the intrinsic motivation of an individual. As a result, in recent years MI has been consistently linked to SDT [13] and it has been suggested by Markland et al [14] that SDT is an appropriate theoretical framework for MI to be delivered as an intervention. In the present study, SDT underpinned the design and delivery of the intervention and in the groups; clients' autonomy and relatedness were intentionally promoted.…”

“People don't care as much about their health as they do about their looks”: Personal trainers as intermediaries between aesthetic and health-based discourses of exercise participation and weight management

“…For example, evidence suggests that the weight-cycling that frequently results from repeated attempts to lose weight is itself more harmful to cardiovascular and metabolic health than maintaining a high body weight (e.g., Lissner et al, 1991;Montani et al, 2006;Strohacker & McFarlin, 2010), and that weight loss and appearance management reasons for exercise are associated with higher levels of self-objectification, disordered eating, and body dissatisfaction than are reasons based on health or enjoyment (e.g., Prichard & Tiggemann, 2005). Research also suggests that although weight loss goals may motivate initial engagement in exercise programs, these same goals can undermine sustained engagement with exercise and physical activity by promoting the conclusion that exercise is "not working" if weight loss does not occur, despite other substantial benefits to health (Robison, 2005;Teixeira, Silva, Mata, Palmeira, & Markland, 2012a). …”