Date of Award
8-1-2017
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Rehabilitation
First Advisor
Redner, Ryan
Abstract
AN ABSTRACT OF THE THESIS OF Stephanie Lo, for the Masters of Science degree in Behavior Analysis and Therapy, presented on May 11, 2017, at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. TITLE: INCREASING HEALTHY FOOD CHOICES AMONG INDIVIDUALS AT A RESIDENTIAL FACILITY. MAJOR PROFESSOR: Dr. Ryan N. Redner Obesity and being overweight are rising issues in the United States and present unique challenges for individuals with disabilities. Even though individuals with disabilities are one of the most at risk groups for overweight and obesity, research with this population is lacking. The present study sought to build on behavior analytic research targeting weight loss in individuals with disabilities. The study examined the effect of goal setting plus feedback on eating behavior, specifically caloric intake, in two adult females with comorbid psychiatric and developmental disabilities. Results were variable, with only one participant completing all phases in the study. However, the intervention (goal plus feedback) was effective in decreasing caloric intake for both participants. This study adds to the limited research currently published on weight loss interventions with individuals with disabilities. Additionally, implications for future behavior analytic interventions on eating behaviors were discussed. Keywords: disabilities, overweight, obesity, food choice, goal setting, feedback
Access
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