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Updated: Oct 11, 2025
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Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
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Autonomy support in a couples weight loss trial: Helping yourself while helping others
Theodore A Powers1, Richard Koestner1, Amanda Denes2
1Department of Psychology.
Summary
Providing autonomy support in couples-based weight loss interventions benefits the provider. This includes sustained weight loss and, for men, improved relationship satisfaction, highlighting the value of autonomy support for both partners.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Self-determination theory emphasizes autonomy support for health outcomes.
- Previous research primarily examined receiving autonomy support, not providing it.
- Autonomy support is crucial for health behavior change.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of providing autonomy support on weight loss and relationship satisfaction.
- To explore the dual benefits of autonomy support within couples-based interventions.
- To extend understanding of autonomy support beyond recipient effects.
Main Methods:
- Sixty-four couples participated in a 6-month randomized weight loss intervention.
- One group received standard intervention; the other received training in autonomy support behaviors.
- Autonomy support was assessed via videotaped interactions and partner reports.
Main Results:
- No condition effects were observed.
- Providing autonomy support correlated with greater sustained weight loss for the provider.
- Men providing autonomy support reported higher relationship satisfaction over time.
Conclusions:
- Couples-based interventions and autonomy support are vital for behavior change.
- Providing autonomy support benefits both the supporter and the recipient.
- Interventions should be developed to enhance the provision of autonomy support.
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