Examined the effects of 3 variables on reports of psychological functioning in 28 obese women (mean age 42.1 yrs) who lost an average of 19.2 kg in 6 mo. Analysis of the 1st variable, frequency of assessment, showed that although Ss experienced improvements in mood from pre- to posttreatment, more than 50% showed worsening in mood during 1 or more wks. Analysis of the 2nd variable, time of assessment, revealed that retrospective reports of depression and anxiety were greater than were concurrent reports. Analysis of the 3rd variable, method of assessment, showed that Ss reported several symptoms in response to an open-ended interview that were not measured by objective tests. Data indicate that the method of mood assessment determines the answer to the question of whether dieting is associated with adverse psychological consequences. (9 ref)