| The aim of this PhD research proposal is to examine to what extent and in which way cognitive and emotional processes obstruct a successful outcome after bariatric surgery for morbid obesity. Methode. Patients of the St. Antonius Hospital in Nieuwegein who had bariatric surgery are asked to participate. Patients fill out questionnaires about quality of life, physical appearance, cognitions, and emotion-regulation 6 months before the operation, and 6 months, 1 year and 2 year after operation and part of the group also 5 years or more after the operation. Patients' body mass index (BMI) is assessed at 6 months preoperatively, and at 6 months, 1 year, and every next year postoperatively. Innovation and relevance. By examining mutual relationships between behavioural, cognitive, and emotional variables, this prospective study gives a full account of psychological variables that potentially affect the outcome of bariatric surgery. Insight into the factors that obstruct and promote a positive outcome of bariatric surgery will provide tools to offer tailored postoperative education and therapy to patients with a psychological high-risk profile for an adverse outcome. This will reduce co-morbidity and improve the long-term weight outcome and quality of life. |
