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Attitudes and beliefs about evidence-based weight loss interventions among treatment-seeking adults
Thesis   Open access

Attitudes and beliefs about evidence-based weight loss interventions among treatment-seeking adults

Nicole A. Miller
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Aug 2026
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011575
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Abstract

Overweight Weight loss Obesity
Most U.S. adults have overweight or obesity and many actively seek to lose weight, but most rely on less effective self-guided methods rather than evidence-based programs/treatments. More research is needed to understand factors that may contribute to the underutilization of evidence-based options. Using data from a sample of U.S. adults (N = 71) with overweight/obesity who enrolled in a weight loss navigator program, this study aimed to determine whether beliefs about the causes of obesity and treatment interest varied by sociodemographic characteristics, health literacy, and trust in the healthcare system, and to examine whether these beliefs were associated with treatment interest. Results showed that sociodemographic characteristics predicted beliefs about the causes of obesity but showed little relationship to treatment interest; specifically, BMI and White race predicted greater belief in personal fault for obesity. Higher health literacy and trust predicted greater interest in behavioral treatment options and endorsement of the disease model of obesity. Overall, beliefs about the causes of obesity were not significantly related to treatment interest. These findings suggest that health literacy and trust in the healthcare system, rather than beliefs about the causes of obesity, may be more promising targets for increasing engagement with evidence-based behavioral treatment.

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