The Impact of Obesity on Psychological and Social Aspects of Life

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity rates have been markedly increased in developing countries. Also, during the last decades, rising rates of psychological diseases and subsequent suicide have been reported. Thus, the objective of this study was to explore the extent to which increased body weight affects the psychological and social aspects of life.

Methods: Using a sample constituted of both genders from different ages, divided into groups based on body mass index, the psychological and social aspects were evaluated using the world health organization quality of life brief (WHOQOL-BREF), an abbreviated version of the world health organization quality of life (WHOQOL-100).

Results: The results indicated that groups with higher body mass index had more psychological problems than the groups with normal or lower body mass index and being overweight interferes with having a normal social life.

Conclusion: considering the results, more importance and awareness needs to be given to those who suffer from obesity. Also, further research into the psychological and social effects of obesity needs to be stressed.