Exploring factors important for a cognitive ‘turning point’ necessary for weight loss in obese adults

Abstract

Background: Weight loss is desired by many overweight and obese individuals but is very difficult to achieve and maintain. Many remain overweight or obese for years, however, medical records show that a small percentage of people in this group do achieve substantive weight loss. This study sought to explore the cognitive factors important for reaching this ‘turning point’ and achieving successful and substantial weight loss. Method: An explorative design was followed, using semi-structured interviews for the data collection. The sample consisted of fifteen obese NHS patients and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings: Factors reported as important to leading to this cognitive turning point included psychological aspects particular to the individual (will power), receiving negative health news from their GP, and the meaning this information held for them (deteriorating health, possible death, and loss of control over their health). Discussion: These results show that using shock tacks by the health professional may be helpful for some obese people in creating the cognitive shift or ‘turning point’ necessary to encourage people successfully adherence to a weight loss programme.