An instrument to measure adherence to weight loss programs: the compliance praxis survey-diet (COMPASS-Diet)

Nutrients. 2013 Sep 26;5(10):3828-38. doi: 10.3390/nu5103828.

Abstract

Adherence to behavioral weight loss strategies is important for weight loss success. We aimed to examine the reliability and validity of a newly developed compliance praxis-diet (COMPASS-diet) survey with participants in a 10-week dietary intervention program. During the third of five sessions, participants of the "slim-without-diet" weight loss program (n = 253) completed the COMPASS-diet survey and provided data on demographic and clinical characteristics, and general self-efficacy. Group facilitators completed the COMPASS-diet-other scale estimating participants' likely adherence from their perspective. We calculated internal consistency, convergent validity, and predictive value for objectively measured weight loss. Mean COMPASS-diet-self score was 82.4 (SD 14.2) and COMPASS-diet-other score 80.9 (SD 13.6) (possible range 12-108), with lowest scores in the normative behavior subscale. Cronbach alpha scores of the COMPASS-diet-self and -other scale were good (0.82 and 0.78, respectively). COMPASS-diet-self scores (r = 0.31) correlated more highly with general self-efficacy compared to COMPASS-diet-other scores (r = 0.04) providing evidence for validity. In multivariable analysis adjusted for age and gender, both the COMPASS-diet-self (F = 10.8, p < 0.001, r² = 0.23) and other (F = 5.5, p < 0.001, r² = 0.19) scales were significantly associated with weight loss achieved at program conclusion. COMPASS-diet surveys will allow group facilitators or trainers to identify patients who need additional support for optimal weight loss.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Diet Surveys*
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Patient Compliance*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Weight Loss
  • Weight Reduction Programs / methods*