The Psychology of Losing Weight

The Psychology of Losing Weight

Willpower is decomposed by psychologists into cognitive control and self-regulation. Perhaps the most cited experiment about self-regulation is the one which led to the delay-of-gratification construct. Better known in the popular media as the ‘marshmallow test’, this laboratory experiment consisted of a choice for preschoolers. Thus, preschoolers were shown a mini-marshmallow, which was placed on the table. The experimenter told the children (one at a time) that they had a choice: either eating the mini-marshmallow right away or wait until the experimenter came back and get two mini-marshmallows. The experimenter then left the room.

Naturally, some children resisted the temptation and got two marshmallows later on, while others did not. The results led researchers to conclude that self-regulation occurred as shown by the ability to delay gratification and consequently get a bigger reward (two mini-marshmallows). However, what is most interesting about this study is what happened much later. Interestingly enough, the children who were able to delay gratification, by distracting themselves, for example, showed better cognitive, social and economic outcomes later in life.

A fat businessman in a decor mixing modern components with old-fashioned ones. Illustration by Elena

Surely, willpower is very important in life. From losing weight or keeping fit, to writing exams and securing gainful employment, willpower and the ability to self-regulate comes in very handy. For instance, losing weight, for most people, is a simple endeavour, in theory. To lose weight people need to consume less calories than they expend. Thus, eating healthy and going to the gym (or exercising in other ways) is all that is required to achieve the desired results. Nonetheless, it is a very hard undertaking because of the willpower element. Indeed, sugary and fat treats are much more desirable than egg whites and broccoli, and getting up early on a Saturday to work out at the fitness club seems much less fun than sleeping in and watching TV. Notwithstanding, if one keeps in mind the long term goals and practices delay of gratification, one is on the path to achieving their training and diet goals.