A multidimensional weight-management program for women

Real and imagined overweight and obesity, and resulting weight-reduction ef forts, are associated with the development of a variety of health problems and eating disorders. For many years, research and practice in the field of weight management have been based largely on a unidimensional, simplistic, weight-loss paradigm. The long-term success rate for persons using this pa radigm has been low. This article presents a multidimensional paradigm that focuses on all aspects of the prevention, treatment, and management of wei ght-related problems. The goal is to stimulate a shift from the unidimensio nal to a more multidimensional approach in weight-management interventions. The paradigm presents weight management as a continuum on which 5 prominen t points are identified: formulation of reasonable weight goals, prevention of unnecessary weight gain or loss, weight loss when necessary, prevention of relapse, and acceptance of an overweight/obese physique when necessary. The intrapersonal characteristics and skills associated with this continuu m, namely, self-esteem, body image, self-efficacy, locus of control, motiva tion, stress management, problem solving and decision making, and assertive ness, as well as the role of stage of change and environmental influences o n weight management, are examined. Issues concerning the different dimensio ns of the paradigm are discussed as are challenges and applications for res earchers and practitioners in the field of weight management.