A comparison of maladaptive schemata in treatment-seeking obese adults and normal-weight control subjects

Objectives: The aims of this study were to determine whether treatment-seeking obese adults display a greater severity of maladaptive schemata than normal-weight adults and to investigate the possible correlates of maladaptive schemata among obese individuals. Methods: The sample included 52 obese adults participating in a weight loss treatment and 39 normal-weight adults. Participants in the obese and normal-weight control groups completed standardized self-report questionnaires designed to assess attitudes and behaviors regarding eating and weight (Questionnaire on Eating and Weight Patterns-Revised and Binge Eating Scale), maladaptive schemata (Young Schema Questionnaire-Short Version), mood disturbance (Profile of Mood States-Adolsecents) and socially desirable responding (Balanced Inventory of Desirable Responding). Results: The obese patients reported a significantly greater severity of maladaptive schemata (after controlling for demographic variables and binge eating disorder status) than the normal-weight control subjects. In addition, within the obese group, there were significant positive correlations between the severity of maladaptive schema scores and both mood disturbance and problem eating scores. Conclusion: The present findings suggest that obesity may be associated with a higher severity of maladaptive schemata, at least among those obese individuals who have sought treatment. Possible etiological and treatment implications of the findings are discussed.