A qualitative exploration of couples’ expectations and experiences of change following bariatric surgery

Abstract

The first chapter of this thesis comprises of a systematic review of the impact of psychological, systemic interventions on weight loss and mental health in overweight individuals. A total of 17 quantitative and qualitative articles met inclusion criteria for the narrative synthesis. The findings showed that most studies targeted weight loss goals rather than mental health outcomes, yet, systemic interventions generally facilitated improvements in both areas. Research in the use of psychological, systemic interventions with this population is in its infancy and requires wider sampling across the lifespan. The results support further research in this area and implications for developing systemic interventions with mental health as a central focus are considered.
The second chapter is an empirical study exploring the experiences of expectation and change in couples where one had undergone bariatric surgery. Sixteen joint interviews were analysed using thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006). The analysis identified five main themes; ‘The patient’s decision to have bariatric surgery’, ‘The importance of feeling supported’, ‘Learning to eat again’, ‘Improved health and quality of life’ and ‘Confidence and body image’. The overall findings are consistent with the systematic literature review that systemic factors are important in a bariatric patient’s weight loss journey. Further research is required to explore the needs of couples from diverse socioeconomic and multicultural backgrounds. Clinical implications for the role of clinical psychologists in preparing and supporting patients and partners for change and adjustment are discussed.

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ORCID for Catherine Brignell: orcid.org/0000-0001-7768-6272

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