The removal of a psychosomatic symptom: effects on the marriage.
This study examined the effects on the marriages of twelve patients who underwent intestinal bypass surgery for extreme obesity. Marked conflict and disruption were observed. Most striking were changes in the areas of sexuality and dependence/independence parameters. The authors discuss the function of the symptom of obesity within these marital systems.
D001010:Anxiety, Separation / Q000209:etiology; D001828:Body Image; D003858:Dependency, Psychological; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008393:Marriage; D009765:Obesity / Q000628:therapy*; D010551:Personality; D011602:Psychophysiologic Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D012380:Role; D012725:Sexual Behavior