Previous research has drawn on theoretical models and clinical observations to develop propositions regarding the mechanisms of diet failure, with only one study examining it directly from the perspective of dieters themselves. Furthermore, research to date has failed to provide an empirically validated, multi-factorial model of diet failure, despite the issue being recognised as a complex and multifaceted one. This study extended on previous research by examining themes of diet failure from the perspective of dieters ( n = 22) and health professionals in the field ( n = 5).

Background: People suffering from an eating disorder (ED), or more gener-

Obesity is recognised as a multidetermined issue. However, research aimed at addressing diet failure has typically examined factors in isolation. Furthermore, previous research has included limited input from dieters themselves. A qualitative study identified a number of themes contributing to diet failure. This study aimed to test these themes with a larger sample ( n = 426) while also determining their fit within a multifactorial model. The results of this study supported the conceptualisation of diet failure using a multifactorial model while also illustrating correlational pathways to be more complex than currently understood in the literature.