Design and implementation of a study evaluating extinction processes to food cues in obese children: the Intervention for Regulations of Cues Trial (iROC)

Contemp Clin Trials. 2015 Jan:40:95-104. doi: 10.1016/j.cct.2014.11.011. Epub 2014 Nov 22.

Abstract

Obesity and its health sequelae affect a significant portion of children in the United States. Yet, the current gold-standard family-based behavioral weight-loss treatments are only effective for one-third of children long-term. Therefore, we developed iROC (Intervention for Regulation of Cues) to specifically target a method to decrease overeating in overweight children, based on learning theory, to inform and enhance interventions targeting diet and obesity in youth. This study will rigorously test extinction processes as a method of decreasing physiological and psychological responses to food cues in overweight and obese children. Through exposing children to their highly craved foods, and 'training the brain and body' to decrease overeating, we are hoping to produce longer-lasting weight loss or weight-gain prevention over time.

Keywords: Child; Cue exposure; Eating in the absence of hunger; Obesity; Overeating.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Body Mass Index
  • Child
  • Cues*
  • Energy Intake
  • Feeding Behavior / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pediatric Obesity / psychology
  • Pediatric Obesity / therapy*
  • Research Design
  • Sex Factors
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Weight Loss*