Can merely learning about obesity genes affect eating behavior? 
Public discourse on genetic predispositions for obesity has flourished in recent decades.  In three studies, we investigated behaviorally-relevant correlates and consequences of a perceived genetic etiology for obesity.  In Study 1, beliefs about etiological explanations for obesity were assessed.  Stronger endorsement of genetic etiology was predictive of a belief that obese people have no control over their weight.  In Study 2, beliefs about weight and its causes were assessed following a manipulation of the perceived underlying cause.  Compared with a genetic attribution, a non-genetic physiological attribution led to increased perception of control over one's weight.  In Study 3, participants read a fictional media report presenting either a genetic explanation, a psychosocial explanation, or no explanation (control) for obesity.  Results indicated that participants who read the genetic explanation ate significantly more on a follow-up task.  Taken together, these studies demonstrate potential effects of genetic attributions for obesity.