Avaliação funcional e estratégias de autocontrole como alternativas para o tratamento da obesidade mórbida

Abstract

The objective of the following study was to evaluate the control exerted by the antecedent and consequent events of behavioral excesses and deficits from 2 diagnosed participants with class III obesity, also known morbid obesity. The objective also included the treatment of the behavior utilizing a self-control program. In order to evaluate the behavior, it was implemented indirect functional assessment using interviews and functional assessment direct observation of the participants during different moments throughout their daily routine. In order to control the procedure during the self-control sessions, it was used reversal- replication (ABAB) design, followed by follow-up within 30 days. The results indicated high occurrences of the behavioral deficits and excesses during the baseline phase and significant reductions during the intervention phase, such as gradual weight-loss for both participants. These reductions were maintained during the follow-up. These results demonstrated the importance of functional assessment for the efficiency of the self-control program. Based on these results, it is justified the implement of a self-control program in studies which required behavioral modifications for obese individuals in many classes, including morbid obesity.