Perceived negative social influence related to weight loss: development of a questionnaire and exploratory factor analysis

Abstract

Weight loss is often unsuccessful in the long term. The social environment plays a role in lapses and relapses. Perceived negative social influence is still underexplored in the context of weight loss. The aim of this study was to develop a questionnaire to measure perceived negative social influence related to weight loss. A cross-sectional study with an online survey was conducted ( n = 368). Questions were constructed on the basis of answers from 47 respondents to an open question about sabotage in a pilot study. An exploratory factor analysis was performed, internal consistency was determined. Three subscales were identified: Normative and Verbal Pressure to Eat or Drink, Creating a Tempting Environment, Doubting the Need for Weight Loss. Cronbach’s alpha varied from 0.84 − 0.89 for the subscales and 0.92 for the overall questionnaire. The present study provides a preliminary questionnaire to measure perceived negative social influence related to weight loss. Future studies are needed to gain insight into the prevalence of these factors among people trying to lose weight and to identify additional potential negative social influences related to weight loss.