Application of Social Cognitive Theory in Obesity Prevention: A Rapid Review

Abstract

Obesity, as a result of including the chronic positive energy balance, is associated with many chronic diseases. Prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide, including in selected developing countries, from previous very low status. Association or causality of one or more constructs of social cognitive theory to prevent and control obesity is paramount for program interventions. We searched titles and abstracts using End Note Software and then approached original articles in databases of PubMed, Google Scholar and Health Inter-Network Access to Research Initiative (HINARI) in English language published between Jan 1, 2000 and Jan 10, 2015. The articles included only when one or more of the constructs of social cognitive theory viz. reciprocal determinism, behavioral capability, observational learning, reinforcements, expectations and self-efficacy were examined quantitatively with obesity or overweight. The data from the articles were then summarized and interpreted. Out of 90 accessed and reviewed full-text articles, 22 included in the review, mostly of which studies were conducted in developing countries. The review results showed that intervening the constructs of social cognitive theory was found effective in preventing obesities including childhood obesities. In studies where media campaign was added with social cognitive theory, logistic regression results demonstrated that behavior change was greater among women. Self-efficacy and social support are the important constructs of social cognitive/learning theory to be effective and associated in obesity prevention, others remaining modest. It is suggested that the constructs are integrated with media campaign and ecological components when intervened.

Key words: Social, cognitive, obesity, overweight, behaviour, self-efficacy, physical.