Self-Regulation and Comorbid Psychological Problems among People with Obesity and Overweight

Global epidemic of obesity is one of the largest public health problems in the world. Obesity is related to a number of co-morbid conditions which lead to disability and early death. Failure to self-regulation, such as to make plans, choose from alternatives, control impulses, inhibit unwanted thoughts and regulate social behaviour, is considered as an important cause of obesity and related co-morbid conditions. The present study sought to examine the relationships of self- regulation skills, general health and weight conditions. Participants (Obese=29, Overweight=29, Normal weight=28) were administered the Self Regulation Scale (SRS) and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) to assess level of their self-regulatory skills and general health problems of people with different weight conditions. Results indicated that participants with higher weight conditions scored significantly lower on self-regulation and reported poor health. Also, obese participants displayed relative deficit in self regulation compared to overweight and normal weight participants. Overall findings revealed crucial role of Body Mass Index (BMI) in both self regulation skills and co-morbid psychological problems.