Positive psychology program for bariatric surgery patients and their partners
Evaluation of Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Efficacy of a Dyadic Positive Psychology Intervention for Patients Post-bariatric Surgery and Their Partners: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing a new online program to see if it can help couples, where one partner has had weight loss surgery, feel happier and strengthen their relationship while also maintaining a healthy weight.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Utah Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Salt Lake City, Utah) |
| Trial ID | NCT05958615 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot randomized controlled trial evaluates the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a remotely-delivered positive psychology intervention called ReConnect for couples where one partner has undergone bariatric surgery. The intervention consists of 8 weekly modules designed to improve depressive symptoms, resilience, relationship satisfaction, and healthy behaviors. Couples are randomly assigned to either the intervention group or a waitlist control group, with the aim of assessing the impact on both partners' psychosocial health and weight maintenance. The study addresses the need for a biopsychosocial approach to support patients post-surgery.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adult couples where one partner has undergone bariatric surgery 1 to 3 years prior and both partners are willing to participate.
Not a fit: Patients who have both undergone bariatric surgery or those without access to the internet may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could enhance the mental health and relationship satisfaction of bariatric surgery patients and their partners, potentially leading to better long-term weight maintenance.
How similar studies have performed: While similar interventions targeting psychosocial health in bariatric patients are limited, existing studies suggest that addressing psychological and relational factors can improve outcomes, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adult couples (18 years and older) consisting of one partner who had bariatric surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy) at participating institution * Between 1 to 3 years post bariatric surgery performed at participating institution and * A cohabiting romantic partner who have been in the same relationship from before bariatric surgery to time of recruitment * Both partners are willing and able to enroll in study Exclusion Criteria: * Couples in which both members have undergone bariatric surgery * Current participation in another intervention study * Lack of access to internet for remotely delivered intervention * Absence of depressive symptoms, relationship challenges, or difficulty coping with lifestyle changes at screening
Where this trial is running
Salt Lake City, Utah
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, Utah, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Larissa McGarrity, PhD — University of Utah Craig Neilsen H. Rehabilitation Hospital
- Study coordinator: Heidi Hansen, BS
- Email: heidi.hansen@hsc.utah.edu
- Phone: 801-585-2373
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.