Motivational Interviewing for Weight Loss With Young Adults

This study is a 2-arm randomized controlled trial to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability
and preliminary efficacy of an MI-based program for weight loss in young adults.
Participants will be assigned to either the MI Behavioral Weigh Loss or Behavioral Weight
Loss arms - both arms will receive a 12-week Behavioral Weight Loss program, including 2
individual in-person sessions, followed by weekly Behavioral Weight Loss modules, reporting
of key behaviors, and feedback on progress relative to goals, all via email. Session content
will be quite distinct between the two arms, with an increased emphasis on personalized
feedback relative to healthy norms, enhancing autonomous motivation, and choice surrounding
diet and activity goals in the MIBWL arm. Assessments will take place at 0, and 3 months,
followed by exit interviews to help refine the protocol.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Between 18-25 years of age.

- Body Mass Index (BMI) between 25 and 45 kg/m2.

- Men and women will be recruited.

- All race and ethnic groups will be recruited.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Currently receiving treatment for Type 2 Diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or
report a history of cardiovascular disease.

2. Other health problems which may influence the ability to walk for physical activity
or be associated with unintentional weight change, including cancer treatment within
the past 5 years or tuberculosis.

3. Report a history of, or current diagnosed DSM-IV-TR eating disorder (i.e., anorexia
nervosa or bulimia nervosa) or any current compensatory behaviors (e.g., vomiting,
laxative use, excessive exercise).

4. Report a heart condition, chest pain during periods of activity or rest, or loss of
consciousness on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q). Individuals
endorsing joint problems, prescription medication usage, or other medical conditions
that could limit exercise will be required to obtain written physician consent to
participate.

5. Report a history of any psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, or organic brain
syndromes; report hospitalization for any psychiatric disorder within the last 12
months.

6. Are currently participating in a weight loss program and/or taking weight loss
medication.

7. Lost > 5% of body weight during the past 6 months or history of bariatric surgery.

8. Participation in any other research study that may interfere with this study.

9. Intend to move outside of the surrounding area within the time frame of the
investigation or will be out of town / unavailable for three or more weeks during the
initial intervention period.

10. Are pregnant, lactating, less than 6 months post-partum, or plan to become pregnant
during the time frame of the investigation.

11. Failure to complete screening appointments. -