The Psychological Record

, Volume 44, Issue 2, pp 239–252 | Cite as

Multidimensional Evaluation of Monetary Incentive Strategies for Weight Control

  • Brian E. Mavis
  • Bertram E. Stöffelmayr
Article
First Online:

Abstract

This study compares the effectiveness of five monetary incentive strategies in the context of a behavioral weight management program. Four weight-contingent strategies were used: (a) continuous positive reinforcement; (b) monetary response cost; (c) positive reinforcement with a lottery system; and (d) response cost with a lottery system. For comparison, a fifth group was based on an attendance-contingent monetary reward condition. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of five groups and participated in a 10-session/14-week behavioral weight loss program. Twelve behavioral and attitudinal criteria were used to compare the programs, related to weight loss, self-efficacy, program acceptance, dropout, and maintenance activities. Differences among the monetary contingencies were found for weekly weight goal attainment, dropout rate, participation in subsequent maintenance activities, perceived program reactance, group satisfaction, and satisfaction with the incentive strategy. The results demonstrate the broad effects beyond the contractually specified contingencies, which can influence participant performance, and support the use of monetary reward incentive procedures.

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Copyright information

© Association of Behavior Analysis International 1994

Authors and Affiliations

  • Brian E. Mavis
    • 1
  • Bertram E. Stöffelmayr
    • 1
  1. 1.Office of Medical Education, Research and DevelopmentMichigan State UniversityEast LansingUSA

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