Applying Social Comparison Theory to Behavioral Weight Loss: Does Modifying Group Membership Improve Outcome?

Applying Social Comparison Theory to Behavioral Weight Loss: Does Modifying Group Membership Improve Outcome?

The purpose of this study is to determine whether a modified behavioral treatment for weight loss that includes one-on-one treatment for individuals struggling to lose weight is associated with more weight loss than a standard behavioral treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• BMI between 27 and 45 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• participating in a weight loss program or taking a weight loss medication
• currently pregnant, lactating, or less than 6-months post-partum or plan to become pregnant during the time of the intervention.
• report a heart condition, chest pain during periods of activity or rest, or loss of consciousness
• report conditions that would render the participant unlikely to follow the study protocol (e.g., terminal illness, relocation, substance abuse, sever psychiatric condition, dementia).