F.C.M. Dassen
Why is it so difficult to resist the temptation of delicious food, and how can we make this easier? My research focuses on training of cognitive control for overweight people, to make it easier to lose weight and eventually maintain this weight loss. We want to achieve this improved self-control through the training of executive functions. Executive functions are seen as our “control system” and ensure that we, for example, are able to think ahead, delay gratification, stay focused on our goal and can resist temptations. These functions are located prefrontal in our brain. Research has shown that overweight people have trouble with these functions and achieve lower scores on cognitive tasks. Can we improve these functions, and thereby increase self-control? In addition, we wonder whether this training should focus on executive functions in general, or should we design specific tasks related to overeating and eating habits, to make this training as effective as possible?
Executive functions are divided into the main functions working memory, inhibition, and flexible thinking. The idea is to develop a specific training for each (main) function, and test its effectivity first. One problem with all these cognitive training programs is that they are often boring for participants. By developing game-versions, we hope to make it more motivating and thus easier to persevere. The ultimate goal of my project would be to combine all these specific trainings in the end into one effective training.