Perceived Competence and
GLP
‐
1RA
Weight Management Engagement: Mixed‐Methods Insights From Six Patient Groups
Jane A. McElroy, Isabella Bertarelli, Chloe Maltagliati, Jamie Smith, Regina DePietro ABSTRACT
Objective
This study aimed to explore patients' perspectives on GLP‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) for weight loss across the continuum of contemplating use to discontinuation, with and without achieving weight loss goals.
Methods
From June to October 2025, participants completed a 30‐item survey and ~30‐question semi‐structured interview regarding their perceptions of GLP‐1RAs for weight loss. Interviews were tailored to six GLP‐1RA groups: (1) considering use; (2) < 3 months on therapy; (3) ≥ 3 months on therapy without achieving weight loss goal; (4) ≥ 3 months on therapy with achieving weight loss goal; (5) discontinued without achieving goal; and (6) discontinued after achieving goal. Qualitative coding and thematic analysis were conducted in Dedoose (9.0.107); quantitative analyses used SAS 9.4.
Results
A total of 185 participants consented, and 141 completed data collection (76%). Descriptive profiles suggested heterogeneity across psychosocial and behavioral domains. Groups 3 and 4 showed stronger profiles (higher perceived competence, intrinsic motivation, and self‐monitoring). After false discovery rate adjustment across 78 comparisons, perceived competence was the only statistically significant differentiator: Group 1 was lower ( z = −3.15; q = 0.0347) and Group 4 higher ( z = 4.44; q < 0.001).
Conclusions
Findings underscore the importance of tailoring behavioral support to individuals' stage of engagement in GLP‐1RA‐supported weight loss journeys.