Directive and nondirective e-coach support for weight loss in overweight adults.
BACKGROUND
Although e-coach support increases the effectiveness of Internet weight loss interventions, no studies have assessed influence of type of e-coach support.


OBJECTIVE
The effects of nondirective (collaborative, flexible) and directive (prescriptive, protocol driven) e-coach support on weight loss, dietary behavior, physical activity, and engagement were assessed in a 12-week weight loss e-coaching program.


METHODS
Overweight adults (N = 104) were randomly assigned to nondirective, directive, or minimal support. All received weekly lessons and feedback graphs via e-mail. Participants in the nondirective and directive support conditions received individualized nondirective or directive weight loss support.


RESULTS
For females, weight loss (η(2) = 0.10) and changes in waist circumference (η(2) = 0.07) were greater in the directive than in the nondirective and minimal support conditions.


CONCLUSIONS
Differences in type of e-coach support are salient to participants. Directive support is beneficial to females in a 12-week e-coach weight loss program.
Mental Health, G.V. Sonny Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA. Jeanne.Gabriele@va.gov
Jeanne Marisa
JM
Gabriele
Brian D
BD
Carpenter
Deborah F
DF
Tate
Edwin B
EB
Fisher
D000328:Adult; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D034742:Electronic Mail; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D050177:Overweight / Q000628:therapy*; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012727:Sex Characteristics; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D055105:Waist Circumference; D015431:Weight Loss