Psychological approaches to obesity in young adults: state of the art

Front Nutr. 2024 Feb 7:11:1328386. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1328386. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Background: Obesity has become a significant health concern among young adults aged 18-35 years. Addressing this issue is crucial, and exploring psychological treatments and perspectives specifically for this population is essential.

Methods: This literature review examines psychological treatments for obesity in young adults over the past decade. It focuses on interventions and discussions particularly relevant to this age group.

Discussion: Research on obesity often overlooks young adults, with most interventions primarily focusing on weight loss and neglecting emotional aspects. Cognitive-behavioral approaches are commonly used for self-regulation and motivation, but psychodynamic perspectives remain underutilized. While group-based methods lack a detailed analysis of benefits, hybrid approaches demonstrate higher engagement compared to technology-only interventions. There is a notable gap in tailoring obesity interventions to meet the unique needs of young adults during this transitional life phase. It's imperative to shift the focus from merely weight loss to a broader consideration of psychological, emotional, and unconscious factors. Integrating group modalities with psychodynamic approaches might offer additional benefits.

Conclusion: This review highlights the need for further research into the psychological well-being of young adults with obesity. A more comprehensive approach is required to address their distinct needs and psychological factors.

Keywords: behavioral interventions; body weight; cognitive therapy; obesity prevention; psychodynamic management; psychological strategies; weight management programs; young adult wellness.

Publication types

  • Review

Grants and funding

The author(s) declare financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. The research presented herein was generously funded by the PSInstitut de Strasbourg, an institution renowned for its ongoing commitment to academic advancement and scientific innovation. The funding provided by the PSInstitut was instrumental in supporting the development and execution of this project over a two-year period. The role of PSInstitut de Strasbourg extended beyond mere financial assistance; it played a significant part in shaping the initial phases of the research. The guidance and support offered by the institution were pivotal in refining the project’s objectives, thereby ensuring that the scope and methodology aligned with the highest academic standards of excellence. Furthermore, the PSInstitut de Strasbourg facilitated access to vital resources, including academic databases and state-of-the-art research equipment, which were indispensable for data collection and analysis. The institution also provided support through workshops and seminars, further enriching the research team’s knowledge base and significantly contributing to the professional development of those involved.