Psychology ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-7-2024

Abstract

Behavioral weight loss (BWL) interventions can help combat obesity and related diseases, but rates of adherence are often low among Hispanic/Latina women. This study explored barriers and facilitators to adherence among this population. Fourteen women attended focus groups and were asked to identify barriers and facilitators to self-monitoring of food and exercise (SM). They additionally were asked to identify body image-related barriers and facilitators to adherence to meeting diet and exercise goals. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Major suggestions relevant to SM were to intervene on multiple levels (i.e., community, group, individual), incorporate mental healthcare, reduce the burden of tracking, and prioritize health rather than weight. Major body image-related suggestions were to incorporate mental healthcare, provide multi-level programming, and increase positive body image. Many if not all the novel suggestions identified in this study could be incorporated into BWL interventions and possibly improve the health of this population.

Degree Name

Psychology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Psychology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Jane Ellen Smith, Ph.D.

Second Committee Member

Margo Hurlocker, Ph.D.

Third Committee Member

Steven Verney, Ph.D.

Language

English

Keywords

self-monitoring, Hispanic/Latina, adherence, exercise, diet, weight loss

Document Type

Thesis

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