Decisions about weight management: a synthesis of qualitative studies of obesity

BROWN, Ian and GOULD, Jill (2011). Decisions about weight management: a synthesis of qualitative studies of obesity. Clinical obesity, 1 (2-3), 99-109. [Article]

Abstract
There is a high non-attendance and dropout attrition from weight management interventions for adults with obesity. Patient dissatisfaction with consultations involving decisions about interventions may be a factor. A systematic review was undertaken of qualitative studies reporting perceptions, experiences, contexts and influences for adults facing, or reflecting on, weight management. The aim was to synthesize a generic model of influences on decision-making about weight management for adult patients. Electronic database and hand searches identified 29 qualitative studies involving 1387 participants (mean age 45.3 years; mean BMI 37.1 kg m−2; 79.9% women). Seven overarching themes were inductively derived from extracted data spanning: cultural identity; social structures such as gender; responses to obesity stigma; previous weight loss experiences; personal motivators and barriers; social support; and practical resources. A model is presented in the paper. Improving decisions about weight management requires attention to how diffuse cultural and psycho-social factors, such as obesity stigma, influence patient choices. Reflection on experiences of previous attempts at weight loss is also essential, as are practical resource factors – particularly for less affluent groups. Considering these factors along with more established theories of individual psychological motivations and barriers may help to improve initial participation and retention within interventions.
More Information
Metrics

Altmetric Badge

Dimensions Badge

Share
Add to AnyAdd to TwitterAdd to FacebookAdd to LinkedinAdd to PinterestAdd to Email

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item