WEIGHT NO LONGER

by William G. & Peter M. Stalonas Johnson ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 24, 1981

The weight control program used in SUNY clinics (at Stony Brook, Rochester, and elsewhere)--which employs behavioral-modification techniques to achieve permanent changes rather than quick weight loss. In each chapter, designed as an independent unit, psychologists Johnson and Stalonas present basic information and guidelines for the tasks to be completed before the next chapter is started (most units take about one week). Thus, chapter one focuses on looking objectively at eating habits by recording the time, place, and atmosphere of meals and snacks; chapter two deals with analyzing that eating activity and making the first changes--limiting meals and beginning to plan an exercise program. Gradually, through six more units, activity is increased and eating habits are improved, with a steady weight loss of one-to-two pounds a week. The system also involves choosing rewards for meeting the weeks' goals (anything enjoyable, including a special food) and also selecting inhibitors--enjoyable activity which is difficult to stop once begun and also incompatible with eating (like playing baseball or talking with a friend). Wisely included, too, are ways of avoiding common traps--refusing food from easily-offended parents and pushy friends, for instance. The common problem in translating such clinic programs for home use, lack of a support group, is minimized here by creating a reward system and building in the support of family and friends. With more background and detail than Cheryl Corbin's Nutrition (1980, p. 1490), this is equally helpful for those susceptible to the approach.

Pub Date: Feb. 24, 1981

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Pelican

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 1981

Categories: NONFICTION