| Learning Objective #1: Understand the process that women who have lost weight and maintained weight loss proceed through | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Understand where nurses can provide education and motivation in the process of weight loss |
The purpose of this research study was to answer the following questions: What are the life patterns manifested by women who have experienced successful health behavior change as evidenced by weight loss and weight maintenance? What are the similarities of life patterns among participants who experienced weight loss and maintained goal weight? Newman’s of theory of health as expanding consciousness research method facilitated understanding of the individual’s experience and pattern identification.The study sample included twenty women ranging from 33 to 82 years of age (M=53.4, SD+/-12.6). The mean education level was 13.5 years (SD+/-3.03). The study participants were Caucasian and from varied backgrounds. Ten women attended Take Off Pounds Sensibly and seven attended Weight Watchers. Three women did not attend any group, and of those three, one was successful at weight loss and maintenance. The mean pounds lost were 52.3(SD+/-39.0) and mean years maintained was 7.2(SD+/- 7.4).The data analysis occurred in two phases. Phase One examined individual participants and Phase Two examined and compared patterns and themes across participants.The individual findings for each participant were unique and revealed a personal journey. Looking across participants six themes emerged from the data. First, before weight loss, women were self-conscious, emotionally vulnerable, and unaware of events that contributed to their weight gain. Second, personal insight and introspection brought problem recognition, readiness to take action, and a decision to make change. Third, women took control of their lives and actively engaged in behavior change. Fourth, women incorporated new skills into their daily lives. Fifth, behavior change was reinforced by social support and validation. Sixth, The personal integration that came with maintenance brought increased self-confidence and self-esteem, decreased personal vulnerability, and improved control of their lives. Implications for theory development, theory testing, research, practice, education, and health policy are discussed.
Back to Women's Health Issues: Models and Initiatives
Back to 37th Biennial Convention - Clinical Sessions
Sigma Theta Tau International