The process of embarking on a weight control program

The purpose of this study was to describe the process of embarking on a weight control program, to understand more about the decision to seek treatment for obesity, a chronic health problem. Obese women were interviewed using field methods. The grounded theory approach was utilized to analyze the data. Loss and isolation were predominant themes and stages through which women progressed before entering treatment. The entering of treatment was viewed as a way of adapting to sex role norms, or what was expected of women by society. Body image concerns‐the loss of attractiveness—was an overriding theme. Physical health played a minor role in this decision to seek treatment for obesity. This investigation generated hypotheses for further study related to the importance of body image versus physical health as a motivator for weight control.