Work

Directive and Nondirective E-Coach Support for Weight Loss in Overweight Adults

Year: 2010

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although e-coach support increases the effectiveness of Internet weight loss interventions, no studies have assessed influence of type of e-coach support. PURPOSE: The effects of nondirective (collaborative, flexible) and directive (prescriptive, protocol driven) e-coach support on weight loss, dietary behavior, physical activity, and engagement were assessed in a 12-week weight loss e-coaching program. PROCEDURES: Overweight adults (N = 104) were randomly assigned to nondirective, directive, or minimal support. All received weekly lessons and feedback graphs via e-mail. Participants in the nondirective and directive support conditions received individualized nondirective or directive weight loss support. RESULTS: For females, weight loss (η(2) = 0.10) and changes in waist circumference (η(2) = 0.07) were greater in the directive than in the nondirective and minimal support conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Differences in type of e-coach support are salient to participants. Directive support is beneficial to females in a 12-week e-coach weight loss program.

Source: Annals of Behavioral Medicine

DOI: 10.1007/s12160-010-9240-2

Authors: Jeanne Marisa Gabriele, Brian D. Carpenter, Deborah F. Tate, Edwin B. Fisher

Institutions: University of Mississippi Medical Center, G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Washington University in St. Louis, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Language: English

Topic: Mobile Health and mHealth Applications

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute