title: Perceptions of factors associated with weight management in obese adults with schizophrenia.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Individuals with serious mental illnesses are at increased risk of obesity, although the behavioral factors contributing to excess weight are not well understood. We report on the eating behavior, physical activity, and body image of obese adults with and without schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
  
  
  METHODS
  Twenty-two obese adults diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder were compared to demographically matched obese adults without psychiatric diagnoses on their responses to a comprehensive assessment of several psychosocial and behavioral domains relevant to obesity and weight management.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The schizophrenia group, compared to controls, reported more difficulty with several eating behaviors that were self-identified as contributing to increased weight. They also reported more enjoyment of physical activity and greater satisfaction with body weight and shape compared to controls.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Clinically relevant group differences were identified that should be considered when designing ecologically valid weight management assessments and interventions for individuals diagnosed with serious mental illnesses. Health care providers are encouraged to assess an individual's weight management strengths and barriers through available assessment tools and home visits, as well as offer specific environmental and behavioral changes to manage hunger and modify eating patterns.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology.
authors.forename: Jennifer D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Lundgren
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology.
authors.forename: Melisa V
authors.initials: MV
authors.lastname: Rempfer
authors.affiliation: Center for Obesity Research and Education, Temple University.
authors.forename: Michelle R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Lent
authors.affiliation: Center for Obesity Research and Education, Temple University.
authors.forename: Gary D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Foster
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001828:Body Image / Q000523:psychology*; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015146:Midwestern United States; D009765:Obesity / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000150:complications*; D014505:Urban Population; D015431:Weight Loss; D055815:Young Adult