Obez Bireylerin Nüks Süreçlerini Keşfetmek: Bir Karma Yöntem Araştırması

Abstract

Obesity is a chronic and recurrent public health issue that is increasingly prevalent worldwide, deeply affecting individuals' physical, psychological, and social well-being. The primary aim of this study is to provide a framework for understanding the relapse processes of obesity. In this context, a mixed-methods research design was employed, where the quantitative phase examined the factors contributing to obesity relapse, while the qualitative phase explored the lived experiences of individuals undergoing relapse. In the quantitative phase, data were collected from 209 participants through a survey and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods in SPSS. In the qualitative phase, the life experiences of 13 participants were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis in MAXQDA 20. The findings indicate that obesity relapse results from the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. Among biological factors, a family history of obesity and childhood obesity were identified as key contributors to an increased risk of relapse. Psychological factors such as stress, burnout, and emotional eating emerged as significant triggers, while excessive eating, particularly nighttime eating habits, were identified as primary determinants of relapse. Additionally, transitional life periods and negative life experiences were found to reinforce emotional eating behaviors and contribute to the persistence of unhealthy dietary habits. Regarding social factors, family culture and social environment were found to play a critical role in increasing the risk of relapse. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic and the widespread consumption of fast food were identified as key social factors limiting access to healthy nutrition and influencing the relapse process. In this regard, it is recommended that social workers play an active role in addressing obesity relapse by integrating into multidisciplinary teams, supporting individuals in maintaining long-term weight control, and developing interventions that promote awareness and behavioral change.

Keywords Obesity, Relapse, Bio-psycho-social factors, Mixed-metods