HDFS 2950 Lecture Notes - Lecture 23: Childhood Obesity, Stunted Growth, Vertical Jump
Document Summary
Strong impact on academic self-esteem, achievement, and social behavior of at-risk children. About 32% of u. s. children and adolescents are overweight. Dramatic rise in overweight and obesity has occurred in many western nations. Obesity rates have risen in developing countries as a result of urbanization and dietary shifts. In china, 20% of children are overweight and 8% are obese - a fortyfold increase over the past 25 years. Cultural beliefs may contribute (view of overweight as a sign of prosperity) Obese children are at risk for physical, emotional, and social problems. Family eating habits: use of food as a reward, overfeeding, parental control of children"s intake. Stressful daily life prompts overeating through various routes: Elevated stress hormones signal brain to boost caloric intake. Effort required to manage persistent stress strains self-regulatory capacity, interfering with ability to limit excessive eating. Social isolation leads to emotional, social and school difficulties. Overweight girls are likely to reach puberty early.