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Differences in Self-Monitoring Technology Use and Perceptions Between National Weight Control Registry Participants
Carly M Goldstein1,2, Stephanie P Goldstein1,2, Benjamin T Ladd1
1The Weight Control and Diabetes Research Center, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
Journal of Technology in Behavioral Science
|September 15, 2025
Summary
Individuals regaining weight were more likely to use self-monitoring technology but experienced negative emotions. Further research is needed to support users and optimize technology for weight maintenance.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Health Technology
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Self-monitoring technologies, such as smartphone applications, are recognized for aiding weight loss.
- However, their specific role and impact on long-term weight maintenance remain inadequately explored.
- This study focuses on understanding these technologies within the context of sustained weight loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the utilization and perceptions of self-monitoring technologies among participants in the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR).
- To compare technology use and perceptions between individuals who have successfully maintained their weight loss and those who have experienced weight regain.
- To identify factors influencing the effectiveness of self-monitoring tools in long-term weight management.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was administered to 794 participants of the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR).
- Participants were categorized into 'maintain' (<2.3kg weight gain) and 'regain' (≥2.3kg weight gain) groups based on weight changes over the past year.
- Data collected included self-monitoring technology use, perceptions, valued features, barriers, and associated emotional responses.
Main Results:
- The 'regain' group showed greater interest in using technology for monitoring weight and diet compared to the 'maintain' group.
- No significant differences were found in interest in wearable trackers or their valued features between the groups.
- Participants in the 'regain' group reported more negative feelings, such as guilt and anxiety, associated with using behavior-tracking technologies.
Conclusions:
- This study provides novel insights into the naturalistic use of self-monitoring technology in a homogenous group maintaining significant weight loss.
- While the 'regain' group utilized self-monitoring technology more, they also experienced more negative emotional consequences.
- Future research should focus on emotional support strategies and identifying optimal technological features for effective weight maintenance.
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