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Fat Preference: A Novel Model of Eating Behavior in Rats
Published on: June 27, 2014
Food reinforcement and eating: a multilevel analysis
Leonard H Epstein1, John J Leddy, Jennifer L Temple
1Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214-3000, USA. lhenet@acsu.buffalo.edu
Psychological Bulletin
|August 29, 2007
Summary
Food reinforcement and behavioral choice theory explain excess eating and obesity. This framework organizes research from genetics to obesity treatment, suggesting novel behavioral and pharmacological interventions.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Neuroscience
- Obesity research
Background:
- Eating is a behavior influenced by reinforcement principles.
- Behavioral choice theory provides a framework for understanding decision-making in eating.
- Excessive energy intake and obesity are significant public health concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between food reinforcement, behavioral choice theory, and eating behaviors.
- To explore the relevance of these theories for understanding and addressing excess energy intake and obesity.
- To organize research on eating from molecular genetics to obesity treatment and prevention.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on food reinforcement and behavioral choice theory.
- Examination of methods to measure food reinforcement.
- Analysis of factors influencing the reinforcing value of food.
- Illustration of neuroscience and genetics contributions using dopamine.
Main Results:
- Food reinforcement and behavioral choice theory offer a framework for understanding eating beyond energy homeostasis.
- Factors outside homeostatic regulation significantly influence eating behaviors.
- Dopamine pathways are crucial in the neuroscience of food reinforcement.
- Novel treatment approaches for obesity can integrate behavioral and pharmacological strategies.
Conclusions:
- Food reinforcement and behavioral choice theory are essential for understanding excess energy intake and obesity.
- This theoretical approach can guide research across multiple levels, from genetics to clinical interventions.
- Integrating behavioral and pharmacological strategies holds promise for effective obesity treatment.
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