Abstract

Obesity is a growing global epidemic and it is associated with significant health consequences. However, weight loss and its maintenance over time is difficult, leading to experts recognising the psychological challenges of obesity. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a psychotherapeutic approach which may help reduce emotional eating. Acceptance-based approaches have been found to be useful with improving coping with food cravings, increasing physical activity, leading to weight loss, especially in those who struggle with emotional eating. Therefore, ACT has the potential to provide individuals with the psychological tools necessary to achieve weight loss goals.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an ACT guided self-help intervention for emotional over-eaters using a multiple single-case design. The results are discussed in terms of underlying ACT processes and implications for weight management.