Growing as a Human Being--Obese Adolescents' Experiences of the Changing Body

The aim of the presented study was to describe how obese adolescents experience themselves and their bodies and how their views changed as a result of participation in a weight loss program. A total of five adolescents were interviewed in this qualitative study. Data were analyzed by means of content analysis. One main theme emerged, "Growing as a human being", which comprised four themes based on 13 sub-themes. Being part of a weight loss program was a time of transition that led not only to weight reduction but also to a higher level of well-being and a feeling of dignity.