Date of Submission

2025

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Stephanie Felgoise, PhD, ABPP, Chair

First Advisor

Susan M. Panichelli Mindel, Ph.D

Second Advisor

Elizabeth A. Gosch, Ph.D., ABP

Third Advisor

Nicole McKelvey, PsyD

Abstract

Bariatric surgery, a medical procedure that alters an individual’s digestive system, has gained popularity in the last several years as a weight loss method. After this surgery, many individuals report improvements with their quality of life as they lose weight, change unhealthy eating patterns, experience a decrease in symptoms of depression, and gain a strong sense of self-esteem. However, research has found increased rates of depressive symptoms and patterns of disordered eating associated with obesity and bariatric surgery, but little research exists regarding anxiety and bariatric surgery with adolescents and young adults. The purpose of this study was to clarify the severity and prevalence of anxiety disorders, examine possible changes in anxiety and self-esteem as a result of surgery, and explore the role anxiety may play in relation to self-esteem in adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery. A between-subjects and correlational research design was used to assess anxiety and self-esteem pre- and post-surgery. Findings of this current study may be used to enhance bariatric programs for children, adolescents, and young adults.

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