The Role of Social Support in Weight Loss Management for Morbidly Obese Individuals

Abstract

This chapter will discuss the role of social support on the treatment and weight loss outcomes of individuals with morbid obesity and those pursuing bariatric surgery. Sources and functions of social support will be defined, with the roles of significant others and peers/similar others being explored in more detail. Literature on how these sources of support incite motivation for behavior change will be provided. The chapter will proceed with suggestions and considerations for clinical practice and these will be demonstrated within a concluding case-based scenario. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)