Psychological Factors That Can Impact Obesity and Overweight

Abstract: Obesity, now recognized as one of the most common and significant chronic diseases, occurs not only in the United States but worldwide. Relevant studies have shown that obesity increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, bone health, reproductive health, and certain cancers, thereby affecting quality of life, including sleep and mobility. This information has prompted the general public and academics to focus more on the psychological aspects that impact and contribute to obesity, in addition to biological causes. The study aims to explore the psychological aspects that influence obesity and overweight communities. Apart from obesity, the paper also discusses how it affects people's lives, and the psychological solutions to obesity. Through a systematic analysis of the existing literature, which contains resources that are peer-reviewed studies published between 2008 and 2023, this paper shows that depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and familial factors all contribute to obesity and overweight. The results also indicate that the mechanisms behind each psychological factor are also different. In addition, some psychological approaches can help reduce obesity symptoms, such as behavioral therapy and counseling.