“I don't want them to think that what they said matters”: How treatment ‐ seeking adolescents with severe obesity cope with weight‐based victimization

This study aims to explore how treatment‐seeking adolescents with severe obesity cope with weight‐based victimization. This was a qualitative research study using an interpretive phenomenological analytic approach. One‐on‐one semi structured interviews were completed with 19 adolescents (63% female) enrolled in a weight management program. The interviews were transcribed and sequentially analysed until data saturatio n was attained. The majority of participants (89.5%) described being a victim of weight‐based victimization and highlighted a significant emotional toll. Two key themes were identified that captured the various coping strategies used by participants. Over half (52.9%) described approach coping str ategies where they acted on the source to invoke change by standing up for themselves, helping others in similar situations or becoming a bully themselves. Whilst the majority (94.1%) used avoidant coping strategies such as feigning a strong exterior façade, denial, isolation and self‐harm. Nearl y half (47.1%) used both strategies. Treatment‐seeking adolescents with severe obesity commonly use avoidant coping strategies to deal with weight‐based victimization. These strategies are associated with negative mental health outcomes and should be evaluated when counselling adolescents with o besity who have experienced weight‐based victimization.
Source: Clinical Obesity - Category: Eating Disorders & Weight Management Authors: Tags: Original Research Article Source Type: research