The Effects of Emotional Freedom Techniques on Body Weight, Self‐Esteem and Self‐Compassion in Young Women with Obesity: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Elif Nur Kazankaya, Ayşe Çuvadar, Yeter Çuvadar BaşABSTRACT
Aim
Obesity is a complex condition associated with physical and psychological challenges. Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) have been proposed as a complementary mind–body intervention that may support emotional regulation and self‐related processes. This randomised controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effects of EFT on body weight, self‐esteem and self‐compassion in young women with obesity.
Design
Randomised controlled trial with repeated measurements.
Methods
Sixty‐four female university students aged 18–25 years with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m 2 were randomly assigned to an EFT group ( n = 32) or a control group ( n = 32). The EFT group received two individual EFT sessions lasting 45–60 min, delivered 15 days apart and supported by weekly affirmation exercises. The control group received standard counselling on nutrition and physical activity. Data were collected at baseline, immediately after the second EFT session (post‐intervention) and at 2‐week follow‐up using anthropometric measurements, the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale and the Self‐Compassion Scale.
Results
A significant group × time interaction was found for body weight, indicating greater reductions in the EFT group ( p < 0.05). BMI decreased significantly over time (mean difference = 0.824 kg/m 2 ; 95% CI: 0.661–0.987; p < 0.001). Self‐esteem improved significantly, and several self‐compassion subdimensions showed significant interaction effects (all p < 0.05).
Conclusion
EFT improved body weight and selected psychological outcomes in young women with obesity and may serve as a supportive complementary intervention in obesity management.
Clinical Relevance
EFT may be incorporated into community health nursing interventions to support weight management and psychological well‐being among young women with obesity.