Covert sensitization and weight control: an analysis of escape and imagery variables

Abstract

The purpose of the present research was to demonstrate the effectiveness of covert sensitization in facilitating weight loss, to examine the relative contributions of escape and imagery to the therapeutic package, and to assess evaluative instruments (i.e. Eysenck Personality Inventory, Michil Adjective Rating Scale, and Fear Survey) to find possible predictors of weight loss. Subjects in this study were 20 overweight females who were members of TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), married, had one to five children, ranged in age from 24 to 61 years, and ranged in weight from 122 to 250 pounds. Subjects were clustered in groups of five according to height and weight; then, randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups or the control group. Pre- and post-evaluation data were collected from all five groups. Treatment groups received six, two-hour covert sensitization sessions over a three-week period with the number of scenes (16), and the sequencing themes (snacks or overeating) paired with noxious stimuli (vomit and maggots) held constant for all treatment groups. Covert sensitization for the four treatment groups varied along the dimensions of escape and imagery. Group I received no therapist-directed escape and no prompted imagery; Group II received no escape and prompted imagery; Group III received therapist-directed escape scenes and no prompted imagery; and Group IV received both escape and prompting. ...