| Overweight and obesity have affected a growing number of people and are among the leading causes of premature death and weight-related comorbidities in the world. Current and past research has shown the risk factors associated with obesity, as well as the treatment options available for obese individuals. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of psychological issues associated with weight loss as measured by the Millon Behavioral Medicine Diagnostic (MBMD). A sample of bariatric surgery candidates (N = 200) who had taken the MBMD prior to weight loss surgery had their body mass index (BMI) recorded prior to and 4 months following surgery. Selected subscales of the MBMD were evaluated using multiple regression analysis to examine the relationship of BMI loss to those subscales. Past research has indicated that psychological pathology can have an impact on weight loss. Results of the multiple regression analysis did not demonstrate a significant predictive relationship between BMI loss and the selected variables [F (7, 192) = 1.05, p = .398]; however, many of the correlations between variables were significant. While the results did not support the predictive capability of the MBMD for BMI loss in this study, the study did add to existing relevant literature on raising awareness of the obesity epidemic and improving quality of life for obese individuals. The result of this research provides important information regarding weight loss and psychopathology, making it a useful tool for psychologists and bariatric surgeons to examine. Implications for social change include improved treatment programs before and after bariatric surgery to address adjustment difficulties and facilitate higher success rates for individuals undergoing surgery for weight loss. |
