Obesity

Psychological and Social factors causing Obesity

Society views obesity very negatively and tends to believe that people who are obese are “weak-willed” and “unmotivated”. Obese individuals are often aware of these negative views, and internalize them, putting themselves at risk for disorders of mood, anxiety, and substance abuse. They perceive interpersonal and work-related discrimination, often suffers from low self-esteem as a result and feel uncomfortable with their bodies (i.e. body mass Cosmopolitan). These feelings may lead to strain on their intimate and romantic relationships. 20-70% of obese individuals considering bariatric surgery suffer from a current and/or past psychiatric disorder, of which Major Depressive Disorder is the most prominent. Obese individuals have typically made multiple attempts to lose weight, with little or no success. Their failed attempts result in discouragement, frustration, hopelessness, and learned helplessness about the prospect of losing weight in the future on their own. The diabetic diet and physical activity behaviors of children and adolescents are influenced by many sectors of society, including families, communities, schools, child care settings, medical care providers, faith-based institutions, government agencies, the media, and the food and beverage industries and entertainment industries.