Functional Imagery Training to reduce snacking: Testing a novel motivational intervention based on Elaborated Intrusion theory

Abstract

Functional Imagery Training (FIT) is a new theory-based, manualized intervention that trains positive goal imagery. Multisensory episodic imagery of proximal personal goals is elicited and practised, to sustain motivation and compete with less functional cravings. This study tested the impact of a single session of FIT plus a booster phone call on snacking. In a stepped-wedge design, 45 participants who wanted to lose weight or reduce snacking were randomly assigned to receive a session of FIT immediately or after a 2-week delay. High-sugar and high-fat snacks were recorded using timeline follow back for the previous 3 days, at baseline, 2 and 4 weeks. At 2 weeks, snacking was lower in the immediate group than in the delayed group, and the reduction after FIT was replicated in the delayed group between 2 and 4 weeks. Frequencies of motivational thoughts about snack reduction rose following FIT for both groups, and this change correlated with reductions in snacking and weight loss. By showing that FIT can support change in eating behaviours, these findings show its potential as a motivational intervention for weight management.

Enhancing Grit Through Functional Imagery Training in Professional Soccer

“…Vealey and Greenleaf (2001) define imagery as "using all the senses to recreate or create an experience in the mind" (p. 248), and motivational imagery focuses on a goal orientated approach. Combining the need to develop a novel intervention through goal-centered motivation, this study tests the potential for Functional Imagery Training (FIT) (Andrade, Khalil, Dickson, May, & Kavanagh, 2016) as a way to develop character, precisely; grit. Andrade et al, (2016) developed FIT as a client-centered approach "that creates a context where people are encouraged to consider the utility and possibility of functional behaviour change" (p. 259).…”

“…Combining the need to develop a novel intervention through goal-centered motivation, this study tests the potential for Functional Imagery Training (FIT) (Andrade, Khalil, Dickson, May, & Kavanagh, 2016) as a way to develop character, precisely; grit. Andrade et al, (2016) developed FIT as a client-centered approach "that creates a context where people are encouraged to consider the utility and possibility of functional behaviour change" (p. 259). FIT pairs the spirit of Motivational Interviewing (MI) (Miller & Rollnick, 2012) with a focus upon enhancing the concreteness and vividness of an individual's goal-related mental imagery.…”

“…FIT has been used in weight loss (Andrade, Khalil, Dickson, May, & Kavanagh, 2016;Solbrig, Jones, Kavanagh, May, Parkin, & Andrade, 2017) and when treating alcohol cravings (Kavanagh, May, & Andrade, 2009), demonstrating significant behaviour change to manage intrusive thoughts. In FIT, clients are guided through a series of mental imagery exercises and trained to practice imagery at home.…”

Imagining Change: An Integrative Approach toward Explaining the Motivational Role of Mental Imagery in Pro-environmental Behavior

“…One area of research where this approach might be particularly relevant is the promotion of sustainable eating habits (e.g., reducing meat consumption, buying local food). Research has shown that through practicing positive goal imagery individuals can change their eating behaviors toward a healthier lifestyle (Andrade et al, 2016) – a similar approach could be used to work toward a more sustainable lifestyle.…”

‘Say no’: a feasibility trial of a brief intervention to reduce instances of indulgent energy‐intake episodes

“…Participants allocated to the cue‐monitoring group reported significantly fewer unhealthy snacking situations per day than the controls (1.49 situations, SD 0.75 vs. 1.84 situations, SD 0.82). In another short‐term intervention study using functional imagery training (a method similar to motivational interviewing but focused on mental imagery exercises for achieving goals) found lower snacking intake over a 2‐week period compared to a waiting list control . Experimental studies, mostly involving university students, have also shown that social norm and health messages given prior to ad libitum snacks are associated with less energy intake .…”