The experience of group weight loss efforts among lesbians.

Objective: To describe experiences of group weight loss efforts among lesbians participating in a predominantly lesbian weight loss group.

Methods: A qualitative study (N = 14 self-identified overweight lesbians) was conducted, incorporating phenomenology and grounded theory in methodology. Focus groups were analyzed using a Template Analysis style.

Results: Several themes were identified that contributed to the weight loss experience of the participants. These themes contributed to the development of a model depicting history, components, and relationships among concepts leading to positive weight loss experiences for lesbians.

Conclusions: Participants had long histories of shame and fear surrounding weight loss attempts. Weight loss group participants needed cultural connectivity and a sense of safety and acceptance to address issues contributing to weight gain and in order to lose weight and maintain weight loss. Although more research is needed before implementation of a sexual minority women-specific weight loss program, these data are the basis for further exploration into the development of such a program.