Psychological Aspects of Obesity in Children and Adolescents

This article provides an evidence based comprehensive overview about the psychological factors and psychiatric factors (depression, anxiety, eating disorder, stress, body shape concerns, low self esteem) associated with childhood obesity that can further be utilized in the evaluation and management of this epidemic. The article also elaborates the role of current evidence based psychological approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for management of obesity in children and adolescents. CBT techniques combined with lifestyle intervention and involving parents have been recommended by literature repetitively. However, there are a number of environmental, familial and personal barriers that hinder the whole process of weight loss in children. The article also discusses potential strategies to overcome those barriers.
Source: Indian Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research