Choice of Words When Dieting Might Determine Success, Researchers Claim

Online, June 5, 2012 (Newswire.com) - A recent study conducted by Vanessa M. Patrick of the University of Houston and Henrik Hagtvedt of Boston College looked at different self-talk phrases used by individuals on diets. They concluded that what we say or think in times of decision or temptation can make a huge difference in one's rate of success.

Patrick and Hagtvedt looked at three different word strategies for testing refusal of foods: "I can't," "I don't" and "Just say no." They found that use of the phrase "I don't" was most successful; it increased participants' feelings of autonomy, control and self-awareness, and resulted in positive behavioral change.

"This study reveals an interesting but often overlooked human characteristic: We do not like to be told what to do, even when we are telling ourselves," say boomer generation health experts Dian Griesel, Ph.D., and Tom Griesel, authors of the new books TurboCharged: Accelerate Your Fat Burning Metabolism, Get Lean Fast and Leave Diet and Exercise Rules in the Dust (April 2011, BSH) and The TurboCharged Mind (January 2012, BSH). "It also helps explain why the 'Just say no to drugs' campaign wasn't very successful, even though it was oft repeated."

"Statements like 'I am,' 'I will' and 'I can,' when paired with the desired response, might be even more effective, because they are positive statements of control and direction- doing something as opposed to not doing something," add the Griesels. "Either way, people should keep this study's results in mind when creating affirmations or when engaging in effective goal setting or 'positive' self-talk."

SOURCE:
TurboCharged Blog

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