Actively Recruiting
Examining Valence-based Effects in Self-monitoring Feedback Messages in the Development of a Novel Semi-automated Self-monitoring Feedback System for Obesity Treatment
Led by University of Virginia · Updated on 2026-03-31
127
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
4 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
U
University of Virginia
Lead Sponsor
U
University of Florida
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating how weekly feedback messages can best support people in a weight loss program. This study focuses on adults with obesity or overweight conditions and aims to learn how different types of feedback influence behaviors and weight loss. It is a micro-randomized factorial trial designed to improve self-monitoring feedback in a behavioral weight management intervention. Participants will first attend a 60-minute "Weight Loss 101" session covering basic weight loss education and skills. They will learn to use tools to track their food intake, physical activity, and weight. After a one-week run-in period, participants will receive weekly feedback messages created by trained interventionists. These messages will either provide positive reinforcement alone or combine positive reinforcement with suggestions for areas of change. Throughout the 17-week study, participants will regularly record their weight, diet, and physical activity using study-provided tools. Researchers will measure weight changes weekly and assess how often participants self-monitor their weight, diet, and activity. They will also track calorie intake, goal achievement, and physical activity minutes. The study includes monitoring adherence to self-monitoring and message receipt, with safety and progress evaluated during the trial.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Examining Valence-based Effects in Self-Monitoring Feedback Messages
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Age 18 years or older
- Body mass index (BMI) of 25.0 kg/m2 or higher
- Weight 175 kg or less
- Own a smartphone compatible with Fitbit (iPhone with iOS 16.4+ or Android with version 11+), with cellular and data plan
You will not qualify if you...
- Weight over 175 kg
- Smartphone incompatible with Fitbit app
- History of bariatric surgery or plans for surgery during study
- Current or recent use (past 6 months) of weight loss medications
- Current participation in another weight-loss program
- Weight loss of 10 lbs or more in past 6 months
- Physical limitations preventing brisk walking for 10 minutes
- Use of pacemaker or implanted medical device
- Pregnant, breastfeeding, less than 1 year postpartum, or plans to become pregnant during study
- No physician confirmation if diagnosed with diabetes, hypertension, or coronary heart disease
- More than one participant from the same household
- Medical conditions that prevent weight loss or study completion (e.g., cancer, dementia)
- Recent medication changes affecting weight
- Eating disorder in past 5 years
- Unable to complete 17-week study
- Unable or unwilling to provide informed consent
- Unable to read English at 5th grade level
- Unwilling to accept random assignment
- Unable or unwilling to use study app, activity monitor, or e-scale
- Failure to complete baseline or run-in self-monitoring
- Any condition affecting study participation as judged by the investigator
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 week
Participants complete a one-week run-in period using study-provided tools to record their daily food intake, physical activity, and weight.
Daily self-monitoring at home
Duration - Up to 16 weeks
Participants receive weekly feedback messages composed by a trained interventionist, focusing on positive reinforcement or positive reinforcement combined with areas for change to support weight management.
Weekly remote interactions
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, Virginia, United States, 22901
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
M
Maddie Glover, B.S.
T
Teace Markwalter, M.P.H., CHES
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
1
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