[Adolescents and Young Adults: What Would a "Perfect Therapy" Look Like?]

Obesity is a major indication for pediatric and adolescent-rehabilitation. Age-specific therapies for "emerging adults" are lacking. The aim was to examine the patients' preferences with respect to the contents and methods of the "perfect therapy" within an inpatient setting.

In the context of the YOUTH study 147 obese male and female adolescents (aged 15-21 years) filled in standardized questionnaires.

Overall little age- and gender-specific differences were observed. The participants expressed a preference for interdisciplinary coordinated and coeducational group approaches with involvement of the parents. Major topics were healthy nutrition and psychosocial aspects. Prevention of relapses is considered as important as well.

Psychosocial aspects and preparing coping with risk situations should be an integral part of treatment programs.