Individual differences in extinction learning predict weight loss after treatment: A pilot study

Learning theorists suggest extinction learning to be a central mechanism in weight loss success; however, empirical studies are scarce. In this pilot study, it was examined whether individual differences in extinction learning predict outcome after weight loss treatment. Overweight and obese individuals first completed a laboratory conditioning task in which individual differences in extinction learning were assessed. Next, they were randomised to one of two weight loss interventions: cue exposure therapy (CET), which is considered the clinical analogue of laboratory extinction, or a control lifestyle intervention. In line with expectations, better extinction learning in the laboratory task was associated with more weight loss at both post-treatment (CET only) and follow-up (both interventions) measurements. In contrast, two other indices of treatment success (reduction in overeating expectancies and ad libitum food intake during a laboratory taste test) showed no associations with pre-treatment extinction learning. It is suggested that extinction learning may be a core mechanism underlying weight loss success, and hence, an important target for new obesity interventions.