Commitment Devices for Health: Theory and Evidence on Weight Loss

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Author(s): Manu M. Savani (Brunel University, UK)
Copyright: 2021
Pages: 20
Source title: Behavioral-Based Interventions for Improving Public Policies
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Viorel Mihaila (University of Bucharest, Romania)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-2731-3.ch003

Keywords: Business Science Reference / Government & Law / Policy & Reform / Public and Sector Management

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Abstract

This chapter examines how and why commitment devices have been used for weight management and frames research priorities going forward. A theoretical framework drawing on Thaler and Shefrin motivates the use of commitment devices to change health behaviours. An original taxonomy separates commitment devices into three distinct types. A review of the empirical literature, with a focus on unexpected findings that defy theoretical predictions, indicates that commitment devices (1) can have positive effects on health behaviours, but (2) can also have unintended effects, which warrants further research attention to under-theorised issues of ‘commitment overload' and ‘moral licensing', and empirical testing of online commitment strategies. The COVID-19 pandemic emphasises the need for innovative but evidence-based digital health interventions. The chapter closes with suggestions for policymakers considering commitment devices for preventative health behaviours.

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Commitment Devices for Health: Theory and Evidence on Weight Loss

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