Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 27, 2026

Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
Development of tools to study personal weight control strategies: OxFAB taxonomy
Jamie Hartmann-Boyce1, Paul Aveyard1, Constantinos Koshiaris1
1Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
Objective:
To describe the development of the Oxford Food and Activity Behaviors (OxFAB) taxonomy and questionnaire to explore the cognitive and behavioral strategies used by individuals during weight management attempts.
Methods:
The taxonomy was constructed through a qualitative analysis of existing resources and a review of existing behavior change taxonomies and theories. The taxonomy was translated into a questionnaire to identify strategies used by individuals. Think-aloud interviews were conducted to test the face/concept validity of the questionnaire, and test-retest reliability was assessed in a sample of 138 participants.
Results:
The OxFAB taxonomy consists of 117 strategies grouped into 23 domains. Compared to taxonomies used to describe interventions, around half of the domains and strategies identified are unique to the OxFAB taxonomy. The OxFAB questionnaire consists of 117 questions, one for each strategy from the taxonomy. Test-retest resulted in a mean PABAK score of 0.61 (SD 0.15). Questions were revised where appropriate.
Conclusions:
The OxFAB taxonomy and questionnaire provide a conceptual framework to identify the cognitive and behavioral strategies used by individuals during attempts at weight control.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Regulation
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques VI
Motivation and Self-Determination
Motivation, the driving force behind behavior, plays a pivotal role at every stage of the change process. The research...
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Protecting Self-Esteem
Binge Eating Disorders
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping

