The Interaction between Locus of Control and Obesity - A Review

Lawson EI and Glenister K

Published on: 2022-05-31

Abstract

Statement of Problem: Obesity represents a significant individual, public health and economic issue; with most recent prevalence estimated to be 13% of the world’s adult population. The development of obesity involves a complex interplay between numerous risk factors including genetics, behavioural, sociodemographic and psychological factors. Locus of control is a psychological concept regarding an individual’s perceived control of an outcome. The aim of this review was to assess evidence of locus of control as a factor associated with risk of obesity.

Methods: A systematic reviewwas completed in March 2021 using the terms “Locus of Control” AND obesity OR overweight in two databases – PubMed and PsychINFO (Ovid). Articles published in English between 2010-2021 were included. Quality was assessedusing a critical appraisal tool.

Results: 129 articleswere extracted, and 18 articles met inclusion criteria. Evidence suggested that locus of control may be indirectly, rather than directly associated with obesity, via key health behaviours, psychosocial and demographic factors.Furthermore, an individual’s locus of control may have the capacity for alteration through interventions.

Conclusions: There was evidence of a complex interplay between known risk factors for obesity and locus of control. In general, external locus of control was associated with less healthy behaviours, poorer wellbeing and lower socioeconomic status. Obesity treatments that consider locus of control and psychosocial factors have the potential to be successful and promote sustained weight loss. Further research is required to evaluate such interventions.