Abstract PS1-13: High Five for Kids: Predictors of Participation in a Clinically-Based Obesity Prevention Intervention

Background: Self-efficacy in a specific area has typically been shown to predict actual success in goal attainment.However, in the dieting area there have been inconsistent findings regarding the relationship between self-efficacy and weight loss.Therefore, the main aims of the current study were (a) to test the success of a short-term group intervention in achieving weight loss, (b) to test whether participation in the intervention improves self-efficacy, (c) to test whether eating-related self-efficacy predicts weight loss in this program, and (d) to examine whether attendance in more sessions of the program is related to increased weight loss.Methods: The study followed up on a group intervention aimed at lifestyle changes, which took place at the Maccabi HMO and was facilitated by trained dietitians.The group method was based on nutritional skills coaching (e.g., planning a balanced diet, incorporating behavior and lifestyle changes).There were 190 participants in 19 groups of a 10-session program who took part in the study.Participant mean age was 45 years (SD=12 yrs), 92% were female and 60% had post-high school education.Participants filled in the Eating Self-Efficacy Scale at the second and last sessions, and provided self-reported weight by phone 3-months and 12-months post-intervention.Group facilitators measured height and weight, and noted attendance at each session.Results: BMI significantly decreased from the first session (mean BMI=31.4) to the last one (BMI 30.4).Weight loss (calculated as change in BMI) was retained; further non-significant decreases were seen at 3-months (BMI=30.1)and 12-months (BMI=29.8).Participants attended an average of 7.5 sessions and increased attendance was correlated with greater weight loss (r=0.20,P<0.05).Eating self-efficacy (in emotional states and social situations) significantly improved during the course of the group intervention.Initial low emotions-related self-efficacy was related to higher initial BMI but only initial low social-situations-related self-efficacy was related to weight loss.Higher goals at program outset were linearly related to greater weight loss.Conclusions: The short-term group intervention was successful in attaining weight loss and improving self efficacy.Participants who initially had difficulties in controlling overeating in social situations benefited the most from the program.Attendance in more sessions of the program was found to be related to increased weight loss.