Long-term Behavioral Weight Loss and Social Experiences

The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of a new intervention that addresses social aspects of obesity, combined with behavioral weight loss (BWL) treatment, in facilitating long-term weight loss. At the start of the program, participants will be randomized to one of two groups: a standard BWL group, or a modified BWL group that also discusses societal attitudes about weight. Participants will not be able to choose which group they attend. All participants, regardless of group assignment, will receive a 20-week weight loss intervention followed by a 52-week weight loss maintenance program, which will be delivered on-site (in small groups). Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania do not know whether the discussion of social aspects of obesity, combined with standard BWL, will lead to better long-term weight loss than standard BWL treatment alone. This study is designed to answer this question.