Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026

Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
A low-cost reinforcement procedure improves short-term weight loss outcomes
Nancy M Petry1, Danielle Barry, Linda Pescatello
1University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
Objective:
Reinforcement-based treatments, based on behavioral economics models, can improve outcomes of medical conditions with behavioral components. This study evaluated the efficacy of a low-cost reinforcement intervention to produce initial weight loss.
Methods:
Overweight individuals (n=56) were randomized to one of two 12-week treatments: Lifestyle, Exercise, Attitudes, Relationships, Nutrition manual with supportive counseling or that same treatment with opportunities to win $1 to $100 prizes for losing weight and completing weight-loss activities.
Results:
Patients receiving reinforcement lost significantly more weight (6.0% ± 4.9% baseline bodyweight) than patients in the non-reinforcement condition (3.5% ± 4.1%; P=.04). Moreover, 64.3% of patients receiving reinforcement achieved weight loss of ≥ 5% baseline bodyweight versus 25.0% of those in the non-reinforcement condition (P=.003). Proportional weight loss was significantly related to reductions in total cholesterol and 24-hour ambulatory heart rate.
Conclusion:
This reinforcement-based intervention substantially enhances short-term weight loss, and reductions in weight are associated with important changes in clinical biomarkers. Larger-scale evaluation of reinforcement-based treatments for weight loss is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Operant Conditioning Intervention
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
Primary and Secondary Reinforcers
Effective reinforcers for humans vary depending on the individual and the context. Primary reinforcers, such as food, water, sleep, shelter, and pleasure, have inherent value and satisfy basic biological...
Timing and Consequences on Behavior
Humans, however, can respond to delayed reinforcers. We often make decisions between immediate small rewards and delayed larger rewards. This ability to delay gratification is a significant factor...
Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement occurs when a behavior is followed by the presentation of a rewarding stimulus, increasing the frequency of that behavior. For example:
Operant Conditioning
Reinforcement in operant conditioning can be positive or negative, both of which serve to increase the likelihood of a behavior. Positive...
Self-Regulation

