How can obese weight controllers minimize weight cain during the high riskholiday season? By self-monitoring very consistently

This study examined the efficacy of augmenting standard weekly cognitive-be havioral treatment for obesity with a self-monitoring intervention during t he high risk: holiday season. Fifty-seven participants in a long-term cogni tive-behavioral treatment program were randomly assigned to self-monitoring intervention or comparison groups. During 2 holiday weeks (Christmas-New Y ears), the intervention group's treatment was supplemented with additional phone calls and daily mailings, all focused on self-monitoring. As hypothes ized, the intervention group self-monitored more consistently and managed t heir weight better than the comparison group during the holidays. However, both groups straggled with weight management throughout the holidays. These findings support the critical role of self-monitoring in weight control an d demonstrate the benefits of a low-cast intervention for assisting weight controllers during the holidays.