scholarly journals Awareness drives changes in reward value which predict eating behavior change: Probing reinforcement learning using experience sampling from mobile mindfulness training for maladaptive eating

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
V. A. Taylor ◽  
I. Moseley ◽  
S. Sun ◽  
R. Smith ◽  
A. Roy ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Reinforcement Learning ◽  
Eating Behaviors ◽  
Mechanisms Of Action ◽  
Mindfulness Training ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Mindful Eating ◽  
Learning Mechanisms ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Maladaptive Eating

AbstractBackground and aimsMaladaptive eating habits are a major cause of obesity and weight-related illness. The development of empirically-based approaches, such as mindfulness training (MT) that target accurate mechanisms of action to address these behaviors is therefore critical. Two studies were conducted to examine the impact of MT on maladaptive eating and determine the involvement of reinforcement learning mechanisms underlying these effects.MethodsIn Study1, maladaptive eating behaviors were assessed using self-report questionnaires at baseline and 8 weeks after an app-based MT intervention (n = 46). A novel mindful eating craving tool was embedded in our intervention to assess: eating behaviors (intake frequency/magnitude), and reward (contentment ratings) experienced after eating. Using a well-established reinforcement learning (Rescorla-Wagner) model, expected reward values (EV) were estimated as a function of contentment levels reported after eating. In Study2 (n = 1,119), craving tool assessments were examined in an independent sample using the app in a real-world naturalistic context.ResultsStudy 1's results revealed a significant decrease in EV and eating behaviors across craving tool uses. In addition, changes in reward values predicted decreases in eating behaviors. Finally, Study 1's results revealed significant pre-post intervention reductions in self-reported eating behaviors. In Study2, we observed a significant decrease in EV, but not in eating behaviors, across craving tool uses. Study 2 also revealed a predictive relationship between EV and eating behaviors.Discussion and conclusionsThese results support the implementation of MT to prevent and treat maladaptive eating behaviors, which target reinforcement learning processes as mechanisms of action.

scholarly journals Cultivating the compassionate self against depression: An exploration of processes of change

2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (S1) ◽  
pp. S356-S356 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Matos ◽  
J. Duarte ◽  
C. Duarte ◽  
J. Pinto-Gouveia ◽  
P. Gilbert
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Longitudinal Design ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Processes Of Change ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Mediation Analyses ◽  
Self Compassion ◽  
Compassion Focused Therapy ◽  
The Impact

IntroductionCompassion and self-compassion can be protective factors against mental health difficulties, in particular depression. The cultivation of the compassionate self, associated with a range of practices such as slow and deeper breathing, compassionate voice tones and facial expressions, and compassionate focusing, is central to compassion focused therapy (Gilbert, 2010). However, no study has examined the processes of change that mediate the impact of compassionate self-cultivation practices on depressive symptoms.AimsThe aim of this study is to investigate the impact of a brief compassionate self training (CST) intervention on depressive symptoms, and explore the psychological processes that mediate the change at post intervention.MethodsUsing a longitudinal design, participants (general population and college students) were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: Compassionate self training (n = 56) and wait-list control (n = 37). Participants in the CST condition were instructed to practice CST exercises for 15 minutes everyday or in moments of stress during two weeks. Self-report measures of depression, self-criticism, shame and compassion, were completed at pre and post in both conditions.ResultsResults showed that, at post-intervention, participants in the CST condition decreased depression, self-criticism and shame, and increased self-compassion and openness to receive compassion from others. Mediation analyses revealed that changes in depression from pre to post intervention were mediated by decreases in self-criticism and shame, and increases in self-compassion and openness to the compassion from others.ConclusionsThese findings support the efficacy of compassionate self training components on lessening depressive symptoms and promoting mental health.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

The Effectiveness of Group Triple P and the Impact of the Four Telephone Contacts

2005 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 71-80 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sonia C. Gallart ◽  
Stephen Matthey
Keyword(s):  
Self Report ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Triple P ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Waitlist Control ◽  
Waitlist Control Group ◽  
Group Sessions ◽  
Clinically Significant ◽  
Main Effects ◽  
The Impact

AbstractThe aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of the four telephone contact sessions that are prescribed as an integral component of the Group Triple P parenting program, and to compare the efficacy of Group Triple P to a waitlist control group. Parents of children aged 2 to 8 years were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: the usual Group Triple P program, consisting of four group sessions and four telephone calls (n = 16); a modified Group Triple P condition, consisting of just the four group sessions (n = 17); or a waitlist control condition (n = 16). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using the Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory (ECBI), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) and the Parenting Scale (PS). Statistically and clinically significant main effects were found for attending either the full Triple P or the modified Triple P program on both the DASS and the ECBI, but not on the participant's perception of their parenting style (PS). We conclude that (a) the four telephone sessions are not an essential component for the initial effectiveness of the Group Triple P program (though further research needs to explore whether they impact on maintenance of gains), and (b) that Group Triple P is effective in bringing about change, as measured using these self-report instruments.

scholarly journals Validity of the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) in Adult Latinas

2012 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
pp. 698-705 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tracy Hoos ◽  
Nancy Espinoza ◽  
Simon Marshall ◽  
Elva M. Arredondo
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Accelerometer Data ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Activity Intensity ◽  
Time Work ◽  
Global Physical Activity Questionnaire ◽  
Work Commute ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Multilevel Intervention

Background:Valid and reliable self-report measures of physical activity (PA) are needed to evaluate the impact of interventions aimed at increasing the levels of PA. However, few valid measures for assessing PA in Latino populations exist.Objective:The purpose of this study is to determine whether the GPAQ is a valid measure of PA among Latinas and to examine its sensitivity to intervention change. Intervention attendance was also examined.Methods:Baseline and postintervention data were collected from 72 Latinas (mean age = 43.01; SD = 9.05) who participated in Caminando con Fe/Walking with Faith, a multilevel intervention promoting PA among church-going Latinas. Participants completed the GPAQ and were asked to wear the accelerometer for 7 consecutive days at baseline and again 6 months later. Accelerometer data were aggregated into 5 levels of activity intensity (sedentary, light, moderate, moderate-vigorous, and vigorous) and correlated to self-reported mean minutes of PA across several domains (leisure time, work, commute and household chores).Results:There were significant correlations at postintervention between self-reported minutes per week of vigorous LTPA and accelerometer measured vigorous PA (r = .404, P < .001) as well as significant correlations of sensitivity to intervention change (post intervention minus baseline) between self-reported vigorous LTPA and accelerometer-measured vigorous PA (r = .383, P < .003) and self-reported total vigorous PA and accelerometer measured vigorous PA (r = .363, P < .003).Conclusions:The findings from this study suggest that the GPAQ may be useful for evaluating the effectiveness of programs aimed at increasing vigorous levels of PA among Latinas.

scholarly journals Effects of attachment-based compassion therapy (ABCT) on brain-derived neurotrophic factor and low-grade inflammation among fibromyalgia patients: A randomized controlled trial

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jesus Montero-Marin ◽  
Laura Andrés-Rodríguez ◽  
Mattie Tops ◽  
Juan V. Luciano ◽  
Mayte Navarro-Gil ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Functional Status ◽  
Neurotrophic Factor ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Low Grade ◽  
Relaxation Therapy ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Tnf Α ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Fibromyalgia (FM) is a disabling syndrome characterized by chronic pain associated with fatigue. Its pathogenesis is unknown, but alterations in central sensitization, involving an imbalance of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and inflammatory biomarkers, appear to be implicated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of attachment-based compassion therapy (ABCT) on levels of BDNF, the inflammatory markers TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, and the C-reactive protein (CRP), analysing whether biomarkers play a mediating/moderating role in improvements in FM functional status. Thirty-four female patients with FM participated in a RCT and were assigned to ABCT or relaxation therapy. Blood extractions were conducted at baseline and post-intervention, with self-report assessments of functional status (FIQ) at baseline, post-intervention and 3-month follow-up. A pro-inflammatory composite was obtained by summing up IL-6, TNF-α and CRP normalized values. Non-parametric tests, analysis of variance and regression models were used to evaluate treatment and mediation/moderation. Compared to relaxation therapy, ABCT showed significant improvements in FIQ and decreases in BDNF, CRP, and pro-inflammatory composite. Changes in BDNF had a mediating role in FIQ. ABCT seems to reduce BDNF and appears to have anti-inflammatory effects in FM patients. Reductions in BDNF could be a mechanism of FM functional status improvement. Clinical Trial Registration:http://ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02454244. Date: May 27th, 2015.

scholarly journals Development of a Mindful-Eating Intervention Program among Third Through Fifth Grade Elementary School Children and Their Parents

2016 ◽  
Vol 14 (3) ◽  
pp. 70-76 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shannon Pierson ◽  
Keiko Goto ◽  
Joan Giampaoli ◽  
Alyson Wylie ◽  
Ben Seipel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Elementary School ◽  
School Children ◽  
Elementary School Children ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Eating Behaviors ◽  
The United States ◽  
Health Concern ◽  
Mindful Eating ◽  
Prevalence Of Obesity ◽  
The Impact

The prevalence of obesity among children in the United States is a major health concern and is associated with increased health risks. The goal of this intervention was to develop and pilot test strategies based on mindful eating practices that foster healthy eating behaviors among elementary school children and their families. Mindful eating practice engages all of ones senses and has been shown to decrease impulsive food decisions and increase awareness of hunger and fullness cues. Using Experiential Learning Theory (ELT), class interventions and take-home activities were developed to teach mindful eating strategies to Hispanic and non-Hispanic 3rd through 5th grade elementary school children and their parents. The results of this research will: 1) contribute to the scientific literature regarding the impact of mindful eating practice on children’s eating behavior, 2) provide an alternate strategy for weight loss and management among children, and 3) provide parents and teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote mindful eating among children and families.

Paternal rejection, psychological maladjustment, and child emotional eating: Path analysis in 8- to 11-year-old boys and girls

2020 ◽  
pp. 135910452096452
Author(s):  
Stefania Cella ◽  
Sebastiano Costa ◽  
Annarosa Cipriano ◽  
Paolo Cotrufo
Keyword(s):  
Eating Behavior ◽  
Emotional Eating ◽  
Eating Behaviors ◽  
Demographic Data ◽  
Underlying Mechanism ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Subjective Perceptions ◽  
Psychological Maladjustment ◽  
Disordered Eating Behavior ◽  
The Impact

We examined the impact of paternal rejection (based on father’s and children’s reports) on the children’s emotional eating behavior and if child psychological maladjustment mediated this relationship. Three hundred sixty-nine dyads of fathers and children were screened using self-report measures of demographic data, parental rejection, child psychological maladjustment, and disordered eating behavior. Children’s subjective perceptions of relationship with father have more impact on their psychological outcomes and unhealthy dietary patterns than father reported parenting quality. Children’s unhealthy psychological adjustment may be an essential underlying mechanism linking perceived paternal rejection of children’s emotional eating behaviors.

Evaluating mindfulness training for medical and PhD nursing students

2019 ◽  
Vol 28 (12) ◽  
pp. 798-802 ◽  
Author(s):  
Helen Noble ◽  
Joanne Reid ◽  
Ian K Walsh ◽  
Sharon E Ellison ◽  
Clare McVeigh
Keyword(s):  
Nursing Students ◽  
Psychological Symptoms ◽  
Group Discussion ◽  
Mindfulness Training ◽  
Psychological Wellbeing ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Healthcare Practice ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Meditation Exercise ◽  
Concentration Levels

Background: it is recognised that mindfulness training can positively impact holistic wellbeing and can improve mood, focus and resilience. Health service students often experience high levels of psychological morbidity. Engaging in mindfulness techniques may positively impact the psychological wellbeing of healthcare students. This is of vital importance to ensure optimum learning for healthcare practice with its associated challenges. Method: an evaluation was conducted with medical students (n=4) and PhD nursing students (n=6), who took part in a mindfulness-based workshop, followed by five weekly 30-minute sessions of mindfulness training, including a 15-minute meditation exercise. Data collection was carried out at baseline and post intervention, followed by a focus group discussion to elucidate qualitative experiences. Results: significant findings were identified with respect to cognitive mindfulness scores (P=0.02) and resilience (P=0.04). Discussion: data reflected three themes: the impact of mindfulness and maintaining practice, improvements in wellbeing, and improvements in academic endeavour. Conclusions: this evaluation found significant improvements in the ability to cope with stress and increased attention and resilience in all students. Although results are not generalisable in this small evaluation, students reported increased concentration levels and improved focus, both of which are likely to impact positively on any psychological symptoms, particularly those related to workload pressures.

Evaluation of a transition intervention in a secure setting

2019 ◽  
Vol 21 (2) ◽  
pp. 158-166 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kim Liddiard ◽  
Sara Louise Morgan ◽  
Bronwen Elizabeth Lesley Davies
Keyword(s):  
Coping Strategies ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Data Sets ◽  
Mental Health Needs ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Transition Intervention ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose Transitioning is an inevitable part of being in secure settings, yet little research exists focussing on the experiences of individuals and what interventions might help them to achieve optimal transitions. This seems surprising as the very people who find themselves in secure settings often have attachment difficulties, maladaptive coping strategies and complex mental health needs, which are the factors considered most likely to disadvantage individuals when transitioning. The paper aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach This study used a repeated design to explore the effectiveness of a person-centred intervention with 18 transitioning individuals in a medium-secure hospital. Three self-report questionnaires were used to capture data relating to anxiety, coping strategies and how individuals feel about the transition pre- and post-intervention. Whole data sets were achieved in 16 cases. Findings Following the transition intervention, individuals felt more at ease with the transition ahead of them, their use of adaptive coping strategies had significantly increased and their trait anxiety had significantly lowered. Research limitations/implications This study revealed that using a person-centred intervention with transitioning individuals was helpful. However, the study was not able to capture the impact of this intervention over time. Practical implications This study highlights the importance of attending to how individuals experience the transition, alongside offering interventions designed to help them adjust and cope to achieve optimal transitions. Originality/value Very little is known about what interventions might help individuals achieve a successful transition. Therefore, the findings offer new and significant contributions to this under-researched area.

scholarly journals Can lifestyle interventions improve Canadian men’s mental health? Outcomes from the HAT TRICK programme

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul Sharp ◽  
Sean Stolp ◽  
Joan L Bottorff ◽  
John L Oliffe ◽  
Kate Hunt ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Linear Models ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Lifestyle Interventions ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Depression Risk ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Over Time ◽  
Linear Trends

Summary Engaging men in mental health promotion can be difficult because of reticence about help-seeking, especially for gender neutral programmes. Developments in men’s health research has pointed to the success of gender-sensitized programmes to increase men’s engagement in healthy lifestyle interventions targeting physical activity and healthy eating; however, less is known about the impact of these interventions on men’s mental health. This study explored changes to men’s depression risk and health-related quality of life at post-intervention (12 weeks) and 9-month follow-up, after participating in HAT TRICK, a gender-sensitized lifestyle intervention for overweight men. Participants completed validated self-report measures of mental health at baseline, post-intervention (12 weeks) and 9-month follow-up. Men’s scores on the Male Depression Risk Scale (MDRS) and the SF-12 questionnaire, including physical health (PH12) and mental health (MH12) composite scores, were analyzed using mixed linear models to assess linear trends. At baseline, men (N = 62) had a mean age of 50.98 (SD = 10.09) years and BMI of 35.87 (SD = 5.51) kg/m2. Results show that both the MDRS and the MH12 showed improvements in participants’ mental health, with significant linear trends (p = 0.003; p = 0.003) qualified with significant quadratic trends over time (p = 0.02; p = 0.03). There were no significant changes in the PH12 over time. Gender-sensitized programmes for overweight men, such as HAT TRICK, are a promising approach to positively influence components of men’s mental health, with the potential for sustained improvements over the long term.

scholarly journals Adolescents’ Addictive Phone Use: Associations with Eating Behaviors and Adiposity

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (8) ◽  
pp. 2861 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah E. Domoff ◽  
Emma Q. Sutherland ◽  
Sonja Yokum ◽  
Ashley N. Gearhardt
Keyword(s):  
Emotion Regulation ◽  
Adolescent Development ◽  
Eating Behaviors ◽  
Food Addiction ◽  
Restrained Eating ◽  
Sleep Health ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Smartphone Use ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Maladaptive Eating

Concerns have been raised about excessive or “addictive” phone use among adolescents, and the impact that addictive phone use (APU) can have on adolescent development and health. Most research on the physical health correlates of smartphone use has been limited to sleep health, whereas other outcomes, such as eating behaviors and obesity risk have not received as much attention. To address this gap in the literature, we examined the association between APU and emotion regulation difficulties, impulsivity, maladaptive eating behaviors, and adiposity in a sample of 111 adolescents. We found that APU is associated with greater emotion regulation difficulties, dysregulated eating, restrained eating, food addiction, and higher percent body fat. Further, we found that emotion regulation difficulties mediated the association between APU and dysregulated eating, restrained eating, and food addiction. Findings suggest that addictive phone use may confer increased risk for obesogenic eating behaviors and food addiction via challenges in regulating emotions.

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