Importance of learned resourcefulness to weight loss and early success during maintenance: preliminary evidence

The present study examined the importance of learned resourcefulness skills as measured by Rosenbaum's Self-Control Schedule (SCS) (Behav Ther 1980; 11: 109-121) to weight loss following a self-control program. Twenty-two women signed up for the 5-week self-control program. Participants' weight was recorded at the first and final session of the program, and at a 4-week follow-up. Results indicated that low resourceful women were more likely to drop out of the self-control program than high resourceful women. Although both the high and low resourceful women who completed the program lost the same amount of weight, only the high resourceful subjects continued to lose weight at follow-up. In contrast, the low resourceful women regained lost weight. Results point to the importance of learned resourcefulness for maintenance of weight loss following a self-control weight program.