Experiences of weight concerns during adolescence: a retrospective pilot study (Student ESmith)

This PhD study used qualitative methods to deepen understanding of obesity-related experiences and the factors influencing weight change behaviours and success during adolescence. The research involved 35 semi-structured interviews conducted between November 2007 and April 2008 with young adults (approximately aged 24), including 17 males and 18 females, who were purposively sub-sampled from the West of Scotland 11 to 16/16+ Study cohort based on having an adolescent obese status (SDS > 1.65) at one or more measurement points at ages 11, 13, or 15. Participants recalled their experiences of being overweight during adolescence, discussing emotional responses, peer influences, and health-related behaviours. A picture task was used to prompt reflection on perceptions of health and weight, followed by discussions on diet, exercise, and any attempts at weight change. The dataset comprises rich, retrospective narratives that reveal the complexity of adolescent weight concerns and highlight the importance of supportive interventions. Framework analysis was employed to organize and interpret the data. This data is anonymised.