| Description |
The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of and participant experiences with the Live Health Positive (LHP) program, a positive health education program that aimed to improve psychological wellbeing and physical health behaviors by incorporating lessons from non-diet approaches, resilience, and self-compassion. This program was implemented with employees of an institute of higher education in northern Utah. The study employed a mixed methods experimental design. Employees were randomized to either the LHP program or a non-diet comparison program (NDP); 29 participants completed the study (LHP: 17, NDP: 12). Surveys conducted at three time-points (pretest, posttest, follow-up) and focus groups were used to evaluate the program and understand participants’ experiences. This dissertation is presented in a three-article format. Chapters 2, 3, and 4 are intended for publication in health education literature. Chapter 2 is a commentary on the need to include psychological wellbeing modules in health education programs due to its relationship with health-enhancing behaviors and improved physiological function. Chapter 3 presents participants’ experiences with the LHP program. Participants reported high levels of program satisfaction, particularly in regards to connectedness, self-awareness, and self-kindness. Chapter 4 compares the outcomes of the LHP and NDP programs. Intuitive eating significantly improved in both groups from pretest to posttest (LHP: M = .615, 95% CI [0.305, 0.925], p<.001; NDP: M = .522, 95% CI [0.186, 0.858], p=.003), and from pretest to follow-up (LHP: M = .518, 95% CI [0.177, 0.858], p=.003; NDP: M = .445, 95% CI [0.185, 0.705], p=.002). In addition, enjoyment motivations for physical activity significantly improved in the LHP group from pretest to posttest (M = 1.084, 95% CI [0.380, 1.788], p=.002). At posttest, the LHP group reported significantly higher enjoyment motivations for engaging in physical activity than NDP, M=.751, 95% CI [0.108, 1.393], t(25.528) = 2.403, p=.024. Participants’ experiences with maintaining health behavior changes are also described, including themes of lifestyle barriers, support needs, resonation to course content, and standing up for one’s needs. Finally, Chapter 5 summarizes the study and offers directions for future research on positive health education programs. |
