| Obesity is a problem of global concern. Because of this condition, millions of people are at risk for numerous health problems. The economic costs to society are high due to increased health care costs. In addition, the obese suffer significant psychological costs due to prejudice and discrimination. Current obesity treatments produce good short-term results, but long-term outcomes are poor. In this qualitative, retrospective study, the cognitive aspects of relapse after weight loss are explored. Participants were women who had experienced morbid obesity and had lost and subsequently gained at least 50 pounds. The study was conducted via asynchronous computer-mediated communication, where 3 focus groups, consisting of 3 to 5 members each, were held, followed by 14 individual interviews. Phenomenological analysis of the data yielded several themes. Cognitive factors seemed to play an important role in relapse. Dysfunctional automatic thoughts such as dichotomous thinking and labeling, as well as the possible underlying schemas such as defectiveness/shame, social isolation/alienation, and emotional deprivation, were found within the participants' descriptions. The implication for positive social change is that a better understanding of the cognitive factors affecting relapse would provide more effective treatment, which could lead to improved quality and length of life for those who are afflicted, economic savings to society in terms of reduced health care costs, and perhaps an eventual decrease in societal stigma. |
