Change in behavioral exercise program-associated self-regulation enhances self-regulation-induced eating improvements across levels of obesity severity

Evaluative criteria in practice: Findings from an analysis of evaluations published in Evaluation and Program Planning

BACKGROUND

Evaluative criteria represent values about characteristics that define a successful evaluand. Criteria direct evaluators' lines of inquiry, including how aims are framed, which questions are asked, and what conclusions are reached. Yet, criteria often remain unstated, and little is known about criteria employed in practice.

METHODS

We analyzed 141 evaluations published in Evaluation and Program Planning over four years (2016-2019). Applying a model of criteria domains, we utilized collaborative, interpretive coding to surface and examine the criteria embedded in evaluation aims, questions, and conclusions. We also identified methods used to gather evaluation data.

FINDINGS

Analysis illuminated eight criteria domains evident in the sample and revealed how multiple domains were combined within individual evaluations. We found overlap among data collection methods used to investigate different domains.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings reveal the variety of criteria employed in practice and how evaluators combine criteria to examine multifaceted evaluands. Findings also highlight the need for evaluators to understand how to adapt methods to investigate different criteria domains. This article contributes to the empirical knowledge base about evaluative criteria and identifies revisions to the criteria model.

Psychometric Properties of the German Version of the Self-Regulation of Eating Behavior Questionnaire

Background: The Self-Regulation of Eating Behavior Questionnaire (SREBQ) is an economical way of assessing an individual's self-regulatory abilities regarding eating behavior. Such scales are needed in the German population; therefore, the purpose of the present study was the translation and validation of a German version of the SREBQ.

Method: First, we conducted a pilot study (Study 1; N = 371) after the translation procedure. Second, we assessed the final scale in a representative sample of the German population (Sample 2; N = 2,483) and its underlying factor structure. Further, we tested for measurement invariance and evaluated the SREBQ's associations with related scales to explore convergent and discriminant validity. Finally, we considered differences in SREBQ based on sociodemographic variables and provided derived reference scores (norm values).

Results: Factor analysis revealed deficiencies in the original model. Thus, we shortened the scale based on statistical considerations and the adapted version showed improved fit in Confirmatory Factor Analysis and reliability. We also found evidence for partial strict invariance, which means the measure is equivalent for the tested groups of age and gender. Item and scale psychometric properties of the shortened version were satisfactory. In terms of diagnostic validity, it was shown that individuals with higher body mass index (kg/m²) have worse self-regulation of eating behavior than those with lower.

Conclusion: In sum, the SREBQ evidenced good validity and reliability and is suitable for application in medical, psychological, and nutritional research.

Sequential Changes Advancing from Exercise-Induced Psychological Improvements to Controlled Eating and Sustained Weight Loss: A Treatment-Focused Causal Chain Model

INTRODUCTION

Behavioral (nonsurgical/nonpharmacologic) weight loss treatments have been overwhelmingly unsuccessful beyond the short term. Rather than incorporating accepted behavioral change theory, most have inadequately relied on providing exercise and nutrition information. Although adherence is a challenge, exercise has emerged as the most robust predictor of sustained weight reduction. However, exercise might be more associated with long-term weight loss through the relationship of its associated psychological changes with improved nutrition than through direct effects of energy expenditures, which are typically minimal in deconditioned individuals.

OBJECTIVE

To facilitate improved helping methods through a proposed theory-based causal chain model in which supported exercise predicts sustained weight loss through successive changes in exercise-related, then eating-related, self-regulation, self-efficacy, and mood.

RESULTS

Segments of the model predict that 1) exercise and eating behaviors will be sequentially improved through increased self-regulatory skill use and self-efficacy and 2) exercise-induced mood improvements will foster greater self-regulation and reduced emotional eating. Short-term psychosocial changes can be leveraged to carry over to longer-term changes and maintained weight reductions. Suggested interventions emerging from the model and supporting research include using self-regulation to enable a habit of regular moderate exercise, facilitating a transfer of self-regulatory skills from an exercise to eating context, and leveraging mood improvements associated with manageable volumes of exercise to improve eating behaviors.

CONCLUSION

The model presents an evidence-based explanation of the exercise-weight loss association through psychosocial mechanisms. It also informs the development of practical methods to facilitate sustainable reductions in weight and health risks in adults with obesity.