Conformity and dietary disinhibition: A test of the ego-strength model of self-regulation

Abstract

Objective: Ego-strength depletion was examined as an explanation for dietary disinhibition in restrained eaters. We predicted that the depletion of ego strength resulting from having to choose whether to conform would undermine dietary restraint. Method: Participants completed an Asch-type conformity task, after which they completed a tasterating task in which food intake was measured. Results: As predicted, restrained eaters who repeatedly exercised choice ate significantly more than did restrained eaters who did not exercise choice. Discussion: An ego-strength model of dietary restraint is discussed. © 2003 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.