Cognitive stimulus-control program for obesity with emphasis on anxiety and depression reduction.

A 20-week cognitive stimulus-control treatment program for obesity was conducted in which 27 subjects participated. The program utilized stimulus control procedures, anxiety and depression reduction exercises, and assertiveness training. Statistically significant differences were obtained in weight loss (P < 0.001), anxiety (P < 0.05) and depression (P < 0.01) reduction when comparing pre- and post-treatment scores. Pre-and post-treatmet anxiety (P < 0.05) and pre-and post-treatment depression (P < 0.05) are significantly related. Pre-and post-treatment percent over ideal weight (P < 0.05) is significantly related. A significant relationship exists between years overweight and percentage overweight (P < 0.05); and a significant relationship between pre-treament depression and pounds lost (P < 0.05) is noted. Predictors of success in an obesity-control program are discussed.