The Role of Attachment in Body Weight and Weight Loss in Bariatric Patients

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to explore the role of attachment styles in obesity. Material and Methods: The present study explored differences in insecure attachment styles between an obese sample waiting for bariatric surgery (n = 195) and an age, sex and height matched normal weight control group (n = 195). It then explored the role of attachment styles in predicting change in BMI 1 year post bariatric surgery (n = 143). Results: The bariatric group reported significantly higher levels of anxious attachment and lower levels of avoidant attachment than the control non-obese group. Baseline attachment styles did not, however, predict change in BMI post surgery. Conclusion: Attachment style is different in those that are already obese from those who are not. Attachment was not related to weight loss post surgery.