Stress management training contributes to weight loss, maintenance of weight loss and improved social and occupational functioning in obese women. Data from the Beck Depression Inventory and the Assertiveness Questionnaire indicate that obese persons have poor self-concepts which result in depression which is inversely related to assertiveness. Stress management training can teach positive coping skills of relaxation and assertiveness, decreased depression and improved self-concept. These improvements result in better social and occupational functioning as well as continued loss of weight. One additional result was that five of the women continued to meet on their own, providing a "support group" for each other. (BN)