Health behavior theory knowledge and motivational techniques to
assist individuals with nutrition and exercise/physical
activity-related weight management behaviors. Skill application
assignments provide an understanding of working with different
personalities and goals, preparing individualized programs, to
reduce behavioral barriers across the lifespan.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students: Graduate students will additionally engage in reading and
critique of original research and seminal review articles dealing
with the problem of weight management coaching. Graduate students
will extend the application of weight management coaching covered
in the course to a topic of their choosing in an integrated,
critical review of primary research.
Athena Title
Weight Management Coaching
Undergraduate Prerequisite
Students must be enrolled in a professional program to register for this course
Graduate Prerequisite
Students must be enrolled in a professional program to register for this course
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Understand the impact of diet and physical inactivity on body weight
Define and discuss personal, social, and environmental correlates and determinants of weight management
Explain implicit and explicit obesity bias and elaborate on implications for clients and for providers of weight management coaching
Discuss and demonstrate effective communication skills with individuals to facilitate successful behavior change and maintenance
Understand the principles of health promoting behavior change from various theoretical perspectives and the Health at Every Size® (HAES) paradigm
Describe and apply the elements of individual assessment necessary to develop effective short and long-term behavior goals
Explain pros and cons of different weight management strategies based on the theoretical perspectives and paradigm discussed
Select and evaluate appropriate strategies for people differing in health and motivational stage to promote Motivation and teach behavioral skills for healthy eating and exercise
Demonstrate understanding of when to refer clients to other professionals and to whom (i.e., medical, nutrition, psychological counseling)
Demonstrate an appreciation for human diversity in planning and implementing weight management programs
Topical Outline
Introductions
Background: Determinants of Body Weight
Behavior Change Skills Introduction
a. Self-monitoring
b. Goal Setting
c. Behavioral Contracts
Mindful Eating
Weight Bias: Issues for Clients and Practitioners
Review of Position Statements
a. Safety and Physical Activity Guidelines: ACSM Position Statement
b. Weight Management Guidelines: ADA Position Statement
Psychosocial and Physiological Assessment
Behavior Change Models and Strategies
a. Moderators and Mediators
b. Social Cognitive Theories
c. Health Belief Model
d. Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change
e. Self-Determination Theory
Dietary Guidelines
a. Scope of Practice Considerations
b. Fads and Resources
c. Practical Nutrition Counseling Tips
