Abstract
Cognitions related to eating behavior, and their occurrence in adults of different weight conditions were investigated in two phases. First, an Obesity Cognitions Scale was developed using 20 subjects at least 20% over standard weight for their sex, age, and height. These subjects monitored their cognitions prior to eating, providing a pool of 26 relevant self-statements. Four judges independently examined the 26 cognitions for learned helplessness and cognitive distortion. In the second phase, three other groups of subjects from a random sample rated their belief and frequency of engagement in each of the 26 cognitions. The three groups, each comprising 20 subjects, were respectively normal weight, overweight (average 30%), or normal weight but previously overweight. Analysis of variance revealed considerable differences between groups in terms of belief and/or engagement in over half the identified cognitions. Most differences were found between the normal weight and overweight groups. This study confirms that weight disorders are correlated with food- and weight-focused thoughts but provides less clear evidence on the role of cognitive distortions and misattributions. We conclude that relevant cognitions can be systematically identified. The obtained Obesity Cognitions Scale may help indicate direct targets in cognitive-behavioral interventions and assessments, and may be refined by further research.
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O'Connor, J., Dowrick, P.W. Cognitions in normal weight, overweight, and previously overweight adults. Cogn Ther Res 11, 315–326 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01186282
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01186282