Jason Lillis

Bio: Jason Lillis is an academic researcher from Brown University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Acceptance and commitment therapy & Weight loss. The author has an hindex of 21, co-authored 56 publications receiving 6550 citations. Previous affiliations of Jason Lillis include University of Nevada, Reno & Miriam Hospital.

Teaching Acceptance and Mindfulness to Improve the Lives of the Obese: A Preliminary Test of a Theoretical Model

Abstract: Background Obesity is a growing epidemic. Weight control interventions can achieve weight loss, but most is regained over time. Stigma and low quality of life are significant problems that are rarely targeted. Purpose A new model aimed at reducing avoidant behavior and increasing psychological flexibility, has shown to be relevant in the treatment of other chronic health problems and is worth examining for improving the lives of obese persons. Methods Patients who had completed at least 6 months of a weight loss program (N=84) were randomly assigned to receive a 1-day, mindfulness and acceptance-based workshop targeting obesity-related stigma and psychological distress or be placed on a waiting list. Results At a 3-month follow-up, workshop participants showed greater improvements in obesity-related stigma, quality of life, psychological distress, and body mass, as well as improvements in distress tolerance, and both general and weight-specific acceptance and psychological flexibility. Effects on distress, stigma, and quality of life were above and beyond the effects due to improved weight control. Mediational analyses indicated that changes in weight-specific acceptance coping and psychological flexibility mediated changes in outcomes. Conclusion Results provide preliminary support for the role of acceptance and mindfulness in improving the quality of life of obese individuals while simultaneously augmenting their weight control efforts.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Abstract: ACT is an example of a third wave behavior therapy that saves direct change strategies for overt behaviors and utilizes contextual and experiential methods such as mindfulness and acceptance to address cognitive process that hinder and limit overt behavioral change. The treatment is informed by RFT and is based on the philosophical position of functional contextualism. ACT seeks to undermine the literal grip of language (relational framing) that fosters experiential avoidance, cognitive fusion, and behavioral inflexibility, through the application of six core psychological techniques: acceptance, defusion, contact with the present moment, self-as as-context, values, and commitment to behavior change. Homework can play an integral role in the application of these techniques, by supporting the in-session therapy. Homework can be especially useful because it allows the client to utilize these principles in situations that cannot be created in the therapy sessions, such as public situation for someone who struggles with anxiety. As with most therapies, ACT has its own homework assignments, but therapists often create new techniques to serve the clients needs.

Measuring Weight Self‐stigma: The Weight Self‐stigma Questionnaire

Abstract: Stigma associated with being overweight or obese is widespread. Given that weight loss is difficult to achieve and maintain, researchers have been calling for interventions that reduce the impact of weight stigma on life functioning. Sound measures that are sensitive to change are needed to help guide and inform intervention studies. This study presents the weight self-stigma questionnaire (WSSQ). The WSSQ has 12 items and is designed for use only with populations of overweight or obese persons. Two samples of participants—one treatment seeking, one nontreatment seeking—were used for validation (N = 169). Results indicate that the WSSQ has good reliability and validity, and contains two distinct subscales—self-devaluation and fear of enacted stigma. The WSSQ could be useful for identifying individuals who may benefit from a stigma reduction intervention and may also help evaluate programs designed to reduce stigma.

The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Therapy on Anxiety and Depression: A Meta-Analytic Review

Abstract: Objective:Although mindfulness-based therapy has become a popular treatment, little is known about its efficacy. Therefore, our objective was to conduct an effect size analysis of this popular intervention for anxiety and mood symptoms in clinical samples.Method:We conducted a literature search using PubMed, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, and manual searches. Our meta-analysis was based on 39 studies totaling 1,140 participants receiving mindfulness-based therapy for a range of conditions, including cancer, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and other psychiatric or medical conditions. Results:Effect size estimates suggest that mindfulness-based therapy was moderately effective for improving anxiety (Hedges’sg!0.63) and mood symptoms (Hedges’sg!0.59) from pre- to posttreatment in the overall sample. In patients with anxiety and mood disorders, this intervention was associated with effect sizes (Hedges’sg) of 0.97 and 0.95 for improving anxiety and mood symptoms, respectively. These effect sizes were robust, were unrelated to publication year or number of treatment sessions, and were maintained over follow-up.Conclusions:These results suggest that mindfulnessbased therapy is a promising intervention for treating anxiety and mood problems in clinical populations.

Mindfulness: Theoretical Foundations and Evidence for its Salutary Effects

Abstract: Interest in mindfulness and its enhancement has burgeoned in recent years. In this article, we discuss in detail the nature of mindfulness and its relation to other, established theories of attention and awareness in day-to-day life. We then examine theory and evidence for the role of mindfulness in curtailing negative functioning and enhancing positive outcomes in several important life domains, including mental health, physical health, behavioral regulation, and interpersonal relationships. The processes through which mindfulness is theorized to have its beneficial effects are then discussed, along with proposed directions for theoretical development and empirical research.