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Original Article
The CHANGE Program: Comparing an Interactive versus Prescriptive Obesity Intervention on University Students' Self-Esteem and Quality of Life
Article first published online: 8 OCT 2012
DOI: 10.1111/j.1758-0854.2012.01080.x
© 2012 The Authors. Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being © 2012 The International Association of Applied Psychology
Additional Information
How to Cite
Pearson, E. S., Irwin, J. D., Morrow, D. and Hall, C. R. (2012), The CHANGE Program: Comparing an Interactive versus Prescriptive Obesity Intervention on University Students' Self-Esteem and Quality of Life. Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, 4: 369–389. doi: 10.1111/j.1758-0854.2012.01080.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 19 OCT 2012
- Article first published online: 8 OCT 2012
Funded by
- Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- Co-Active Life Coaching;
- lifestyle intervention;
- motivational interviewing;
- obesity;
- quality of life;
- self-esteem
Background: Previous studies incorporating Motivational Interviewing administered via Co-Active Life Coaching tools (MI-via-CALC) have elicited positive results among adults with obesity. However, there is a paucity of this research that includes sufficient power and a comparison group. This study's purpose was to compare MI-via-CALC with a validated obesity intervention among university students. Methods: Participants (n = 45) were randomised to either a telephone-based 12-week: (a) MI-via-CALC program whereby a certified coach worked with subjects to achieve goals through dialogue; or (b) lifestyle modification treatment following the LEARN Program for Weight Management. Participants completed the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Short Form Functional Health Status Scale (SF-36) at baseline, mid-, and post-treatment, and 3 and 6 months following the program. Results: Analyses revealed that both conditions elicited significant time effects between baseline and 6 months for self-esteem and all dimensions of the SF-36 (e.g. overall health). Conclusions: MI-via-CALC compares favorably with LEARN as an obesity treatment. Given that self-esteem and quality of life are essential for promoting behavior change among individuals with obesity, this study offers unique insights into their change processes. Future research should provide both treatments and allow participants to choose based on their personal preferences, learning styles, and needs.