Differential effectiveness of informal group procedures in weight control

Abstract

This article is the latest in a series that deals with psychological factors connected with obesity and its management in women members of the TOPS ("Take Off Pounds Sensibly") organization. Successful weight losers have MMPI profiles that differ from those of non-losers, and both show "normalization" of MMPI profiles and improvement in weight control after 16 weeks of group therapy. The present investigation attempted to assess the effectiveness of different types of nonprofessional "therapy" (the interactions of members at local TOPS chapter meetings) in helping members to achieve greater weight control. Nineteen TOPS chapter meetings were rated on 18 scales descriptive of member interaction, leader behavior, stress on nutrition, exercise, psychological factors in weight control, group and individual attitudes toward each other and toward the TOPS organization, and the like. Twelve of the 18 scales showed significant interjudge reliability, and for 10 chapters on which complete data were available (N = 108) 5 of these 12 scales significantly differentiated relatively successful from unsuccessful chapters. Those 5 were "attitudinal" or "interactional" variables such as emotional concern and enthusiasm rather than "content" or "procedural" variables such as emphasis on diet or exercise or reinforcement procedures.

Self-help groups: A referral resource for professional therapists.

“…Levy (1976) found members to be typically female and diverse in demographic characteristics. McCall, Siderits, and Fadden (1977) found that attitudinal and interactional variables such as enthusiasm for the organization and friendly interaction rather than content-oriented variables differentiated successful versus unsuccessful groups. Barrett (1978) compared self-help versus other types of groups and discovered that group members compared to controls showed significant improvement in estimation of future health and were less other oriented.…”

“…emotional tone and success rate) and their leadership is valuable. Successful self-help weight loss groups were characterized by the attitudinal and interactional variables of leader concern for members, members' concern for each other, the success of the leader as a role model, and the "togetherness" of the members in their group interaction (McCall et al, 1977). Thus, beneficial participation would most likely occur if the group leader is experienced and trusted by the referring psychotherapist.…”