Challenging the Misconception that Obesity is Caused by a Lack of Willpower
Capella University PSYC3310 Brain,
Body, and Behavior
, 2
Challenging the Misconception that Obesity is Caused by a Lack of Willpower
The statement that “obesity it caused by lack of willpower” oversimplifies a multifaceted
health condition and overlooks significant biological, psychological, and social determinants.
The perception that obesity results solely from personal failings persists, fueled by sources that
dismiss the complexity of this condition. This paper challenges misconception by evaluating the
role of biological mechanisms and psychological theories in obesity. In doing so, it emphasizes
evidence from peer-reviewed research to clarify that obesity is a biopsychosocial phenomenon,
shaped by various interacting influences that extend beyond individual self-discipline.
Flawed Source
The flawed source in question is a blog post located at "https://qr.ae/p2lRSP" presents the
claim that obesity is predominantly caused by a lack of willpower and self-discipline, suggesting
that individuals who struggle with obesity could resolve their condition through enhanced
personal effort and self-control. This perspective emphasizes personal responsibility and
individual decision-making while dismissing other influential factors. However, the argument is
poorly substantiated, lacking credible scientific evidence to support its stance. The author fails to
consider the complex biopsychological factors that contribute to obesity, including genetic
predispositions, metabolic differences, and the brain’s regulation of hunger and satiety. (Sumune,
2024).