The impact of the first COVID-19 lockdown on weight management practices in UK adults: A self-regulation perspective

Genes, Denisa; Sirois, Fuschia M; Buckland, Nicola J

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the impact of the first UK COVID-19 lockdown on individuals’ weight management attempts (WMA). A self-regulation theoretical framework was used to identify predictors of continuing with a WMA, and weight change during the lockdown. An online retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted after the first UK COVID-19 lockdown. The sample consisted of 166 UK adults (M:31.08, SD:12.15) that were trying to manage their weight before the lockdown started. The survey assessed changes in WMA and practices, and measured perceived stress, flexible/rigid restraint, uncontrolled eating, craving control, and self-compassion. Results showed that 56% of participants reported disruption to their WMA during the lockdown. Participants with lower levels of perceived stress and higher flexible restraint were more likely to continue their WMA. Flexible restraint was a significant predictor of weight change. Interventions that promote flexibility in weight management may be beneficial for at-risk individuals under lockdown conditions.

Citation

Genes, D., Sirois, F. M., & Buckland, N. J. (2023). The impact of the first COVID-19 lockdown on weight management practices in UK adults: A self-regulation perspective. Health Psychology Open, 10(2), https://doi.org/10.1177/20551029231214058

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Sep 30, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Nov 8, 2023
• Publication Date: 2023-07
• Deposit Date: Nov 15, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 15, 2023
• Journal: Health Psychology Open
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 10
• Issue: 2
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/20551029231214058
• Keywords: weight management, obesity, COVID-19 lockdown, self-regulation, physical activity, energy intake
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1907315