Obesity, Weight Loss, and Relationships

Paper Summary:

This research paper attempts to identify the particular problems that arise from obesity and how they affect the couple relationship. The paper is a qualitative study that looks at the experiences of obesity and weight loss from the standpoint of the obese individual, their non-obese partner, and the couple.

Overview of the Study
Introduction to the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Need for the Study
Theoretical Framework
Definition of Terms
Research Questions
Literature about the Problem of Obesity
Hypothesized Interactional Patterns
Obesity and Poor Self/Body Image
Weight and Self-Esteem/Body Image
The Link Between Mind and Body
Psychopathology and Psychological Distress
on the Individual and Within the Marital Relationship
Obesity as a Mental Disorder
Obesity, Marital Satisfaction, and Intimacy in the Couple Relationship
Obesity, Psychopathology, and Marital Satisfaction in the Couple
Relationship
Obesity and Sexuality in the Couple Relationship
Obesity and Partner Support
PhotoTherapy
Rationale for the Methodology
Semi-Structured Interviews
Population, Setting and Sample
Subjects
Procedure
Instruments
Researcher Information and Biases
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Ethical Considerations
Trustworthiness of the Data

From the Paper:

"Literature about the problem of obesity indicates that it is attributable to a host of other problems that likewise contribute to the pain and suffering of these individuals. This includes problems with physical health, as well as emotional difficulties, and these will be covered in Chapter Two. Many of these problems are psychological in nature; however, the psychological problems that come from being obese can be equally, or even more, destructive to the individual than the largely recognized physiological problems. Both the experience of obesity and the treatment of weight loss need to be focused upon if the associated psychological effects and problems are to be identified and treated. Unchecked, these problems can help to perpetuate the cycle of obesity and weight loss, maintaining the high rate of recidivism associated with weight loss treatment programs."

More papers on Obesity, Weight Loss, and Relationships:

• Research Paper # 98531 : "Obesity"
• Research Paper # 52247 : "Obesity"
• Research Paper # 95168 : "Health, Exercise and Weight-Loss"

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