Obesity in children and adolescents: understanding and treating the problem

Childhood obesity is reviewed according to medical and sociological factors, psychological characteristics, family situations, and eating patterns. The treatment of obesity is reviewed according to different therapeutic modalities and the categories for provision of these services. There are indications that multicomponent programs, based on behavioral management principles, may offer the most effective treatment. Special emphasis is given to obesity treatment programs in school settings. There are many opportunities for social workers in health and other settings to provide vital services in preventing, alleviating, and treating the problem of childhood obesity.