Obesity 179The values of the researchers“Overeating” assumes that this behavior is “wrong” because it may lead
to weight gain. This judgment is only accepted within a culture where food
is freely available and weight gain is regarded as unacceptable. For other
cultures, eating to maintain weight could be seen as “undereating.”
Conclusion
The prevalence of obesity is on the increase in the West. It is associated
with a range of physical problems such as heart disease and diabetes, and
it may be linked to psychological problems such as depression and low
self-esteem. Much research has explored the causes of obesity and has focused
on two main mechanisms. The first emphasizes a physiological process which
highlights the role of genetics, metabolism, and fat cells, and also the role
of genetics in appetite regulation. The second emphasizes behavior in
terms of both physical activity and food intake. Overall, the research sug-
gests that some individuals have a genetic tendency to be obese, that obesity
is related to underexercise and to the consumption of relatively more fat
than carbohydrate.
Towards an integrated model of diet
Attempts to eat a healthy diet are complicated by the meanings
associated with food and body size which can result in weight con-
cern. For many this weight concern takes the form of body dissatis-
faction which is translated into dieting and attempts to eat less.
However many dieters end up overeating, and experience lowered
mood and a preoccupation with food. In those individuals with a
genetic predisposition to becoming obese, these episodes of over-
eating may result in weight gain which over many years can result
in obesity. Researchers and clinicians have developed approaches to
treat obesity, which are the focus of the next chapter.