A Synthesis of Recent Research on Obesity with the Rorschach and Suggestions for the Future

Abstract

This article reviews recent research made on obesity using the Rorschach (Comprehensive System: CS) as the main assessment procedure. It focuses on the main results of a research program performed by the author within the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden. When we studied Rorschach characteristics related to obesity, patients demonstrated difficulties with emotions and coping with everyday demands. We found that severe obesity was associated with lower mental distress and bodily concern. In experimentations, Rorschach predicted outcomes such as eating behaviors and weight. Larger weight loss in obesity treatments was explained by physical or dependency needs for food. These aspects could be specifically altered by treatment interventions targeting hunger or eating habits. Ego dysfunctions such as distortions in perception of reality predicted smaller weight loss and indicated more profound difficulties in obesity.