Abstract
Objective
Executive functions (EF) are crucial to successful weight management, yet few studies have prospectively explored the influence of social-environmental factors on the EF-weight loss (WL) link. This study examined interactions between EF, partner support, and household structure on weight loss outcomes in a couples-based intervention, grounded in Self-Determination Theory (SDT).
Method
Cohabitating dyads attended weekly weight loss groups (Ncouples = 64), Mage =54.0 ± 9.5, MBMI = 34.2 ± 5.4 kg/m2, 50% female, 88.8% Caucasian). Weight was measured at baseline and 6 months. The Behavior Rating Index of Executive Functions-Adult assessed 9 EF domains; higher scores indicate greater difficulty. Partner autonomy support (AS) was measured using the Important Other Climate Questionnaire, household structure with the Confusion, Hubbub, and Order Scale (CHAOS), IQ with the WASI-II 2-subscale estimate.
Results
Multilevel models were specified with MIXED linear function in SPSS to account for dyadic interdependence, controlling for age, education, IQ and group. Moderators (AS and CHAOS) were grand-mean centered. High and low levels were created at +1SD and -1SD. At high levels of AS, Shifting (B = 1.50, p = .01) and Inhibition (B = 2.23, p = .01) were associated with greater 6-month WL. At low levels of AS, Working Memory was associated with greater WL (p < .01). Self-Monitoring was associated with greater WL at high chaos (B = .43, p = .01), but not low chaos (p = 0.1).
Conclusions
Findings suggest that context matters; recruiting specific EFs may promote more WL for individuals embedded in low support or chaotic home environments. Future interventions should address the complexity of successful weight management, targeting both individual and social-interpersonal factors.
A-164 Influence of Executive Function, Partner Support, and Environmental Structure on Behavioral Weight Management Outcomes
