A Self-compassion Focused Intervention for Internalized Weight Bias and Weight Loss

The goal of clinical trial is to test a novel weight loss approach combining a standard weight loss and internalized weight bias intervention with self-compassion exercises in overweight adults with moderate to high levels of internalized weight bias. The main question[s] it aims to answer are: 1) Can participants lose significant weight loss and 2) significantly reduce internalized weight bias. Participants will take part in a 12 week novel weight loss approach combining a standard weight loss and internalized weight bias intervention with self-compassion exercises using videoconferencing software.

The goal of clinical trial is to test a novel weight loss approach combining a standard weight loss and internalized weight bias intervention with self-compassion exercises in overweight adults with moderate to high levels of internalized weight bias. The main question[s] it aims to answer are: 1) Can participants lose significant weight loss and 2) significantly reduce internalized weight bias. Participants will take part in a 12-week novel weight loss approach combining a standard weight loss and internalized weight bias intervention with self-compassion exercises using videoconferencing software. The weight loss approach will be modeled after the Diabetes Prevention Program and the approach utilized to reduce internalized weight bias will be Kristen Neff's self-compassion intervention. Each weekly session will utilize Webex videoconferencing software and last approximately 60-90 minutes.

A novel weight loss approach combining a standard weight loss based on the Diabetes Prevention Program and internalized weight bias intervention with self-compassion exercises.

Change in internalized weight bias (range 1-7 with higher scores indicating greater internalized weight bias)

Inclusion Criteria: BMI ≥ 25, ≥ 18 years old Smartphone access WBIS score ≥ 4 Exclusion Criteria: Type I diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, cardiovascular event in past year, any major active kidney, liver, cardio, or cerebrovascular disease, musculoskeletal problems that would prevent physical activity, current weight loss medication or weight loss program, history of bariatric surgery, pregnant or breastfeeding, eating disorder except binge eating disorder