Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2025
09:00
Investigating Pain-Related Avoidance Behavior using a Robotic Arm-Reaching Paradigm
Published on: October 3, 2020
4.0K
Higher general executive functions predicts lower body mass index by mitigating avoidance behaviors
Marco La Marra1, Ciro Rosario Ilardi1,2, Ines Villano1
1Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
Frontiers in Endocrinology
|November 28, 2022
Summary
Better executive functioning is linked to lower body mass index (BMI) by reducing avoidance behaviors. This study explores how cognitive abilities and body image affect weight in adults.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Investigates the interplay between obesity, executive functions, and body image.
- Focuses on a nonclinical population in southern Italy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between executive functioning, body image disturbances, and body mass index (BMI).
- To understand the mediating role of avoidance behaviors in this relationship.
Main Methods:
- Assessed general executive functioning using the Frontal Assessment Battery-15 (FAB15).
- Evaluated body image disturbances with the Body Uneasiness Test.
- Analyzed data from 255 participants (M age = 43.51 years, M BMI = 26.21).
Main Results:
- Multiple linear regression revealed that age, education, FAB15 score, body image concerns, and avoidance predicted BMI variance.
- Mediation analysis showed a significant indirect effect of FAB15 on BMI through avoidance.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced executive functioning is associated with a lower BMI.
- This association is partially mediated by a reduction in avoidance behaviors.
- Findings suggest cognitive strategies may help manage weight by influencing behavioral avoidance.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Obesity
579
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value derived from a person's weight and height, used to categorize individuals into weight ranges. It is calculated using the formula: weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. Obesity is a health condition characterized by excessive accumulation of adipose tissue that poses health risks, often diagnosed with a BMI ≥ 30. This excess fat storage occurs when surplus dietary calories are converted into triglycerides and stored in...
579
02:45Self-Discrepancy Theory
18.4K
One influential perspective on what motivates people's behavior is detailed in Tory Higgin's self-discrepancy theory (Higgins, 1987). He proposed that people hold disagreeing internal representations of themselves that lead to different emotional states.
18.4K
01:14Avoidance Learning and Learned Helplessness
1.9K
Avoidance learning and learned helplessness are critical concepts in understanding behavioral responses to negative stimuli.
Avoidance learning occurs when an organism learns that a specific behavior can prevent an unpleasant outcome. For example, a student who receives a bad grade may start studying harder to avoid future poor grades. This behavior persists even when the negative outcome is no longer present. Avoidance learning is powerful because it maintains behavior in the absence of the...
Avoidance learning occurs when an organism learns that a specific behavior can prevent an unpleasant outcome. For example, a student who receives a bad grade may start studying harder to avoid future poor grades. This behavior persists even when the negative outcome is no longer present. Avoidance learning is powerful because it maintains behavior in the absence of the...
1.9K
01:52Regression Toward the Mean
6.3K
Regression toward the mean (“RTM”) is a phenomenon in which extremely high or low values—for example, and individual’s blood pressure at a particular moment—appear closer to a group’s average upon remeasuring. Although this statistical peculiarity is the result of random error and chance, it has been problematic across various medical, scientific, financial and psychological applications. In particular, RTM, if not taken into account, can interfere when...
6.3K
01:26Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques I
81
Stress prevention and management are crucial for maintaining well-being and building resilience. Techniques to manage stress include cultivating qualities like conscientiousness, a sense of personal control, and self-efficacy. Each of these traits significantly reduces stress and promotes healthier lifestyle choices and outcomes.
Conscientiousness
Conscientious individuals tend to be organized, responsible, and disciplined. They prioritize completing tasks and following structured routines,...
Conscientiousness
Conscientious individuals tend to be organized, responsible, and disciplined. They prioritize completing tasks and following structured routines,...
81
01:24Primary Motives: Sleep, Sex, and Pain Avoidance
1.2K
Primary motives such as sleep, sex, and pain avoidance are crucial drivers of behavior in humans and animals. These motives ensure survival, reproductive success, and overall well-being by prompting actions that meet essential bodily needs.
Sleep is a fundamental physiological drive that fosters a state of restfulness crucial for several bodily functions. It facilitates body restoration, the process by which the body repairs, rejuvenates, and maintains itself during sleep, including memory...
Sleep is a fundamental physiological drive that fosters a state of restfulness crucial for several bodily functions. It facilitates body restoration, the process by which the body repairs, rejuvenates, and maintains itself during sleep, including memory...
1.2K