Childhood Obesity and Self-Esteem

By observing the typical American teenager eating habits , it is difficult to believe the claim that our society is obsessed with thinness. Children and adolescents often chow down on French fries in fast food restaurants , or snack on chips, ice cream and cookies while watching TV .

It is no secret that American children are becoming obese . Since 1960 , the incidence of childhood obesity has increased by 50 % and about one in five Americans weigh more than he / she should.

While the health risks of obesity are well known , the psychological effects of childhood obesity can be just as devastating. Youth who are overweight are often teased - both peers and adults . They are often considered less desirable to have as friends. Jokes mocking overweight people are commonplace in our society. Growing up, obese children are forced to endure barbs psychological and social discrimination . As a result, often suffer from low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy , and are generally regarded as the source of their own problem.

Many potentially embarrassing social situations for overweight children. Appearing in gym classes or public pools, where you have to wear more revealing clothing is a difficult time. Those practicing competitive sports often suffer the humiliation of being the last choice for teams.

Studies have shown that obese children tend to perform less well in school than their peers of normal weight, and often have lower grade point averages . As they grow into young adults are more difficult to gain acceptance to college and looking for jobs and future promotions. It is indeed surprising that over time these childhood experiences leads to low self esteem and low self confidence. This may be the beginning of a miserable cycle of social isolation , emotional withdrawal , depression , inactivity, more overeating, and even weight gain .

The first step in helping an overweight child , who may be experiencing low self-esteem, is to be able to identify the warning signs . They include:

· The child seems sad, lonely , anxious or angry

· The child has few friends

· The child seems obsessed with food or with food

· Sleep patterns are disrupted

· The general lack of interest in activities that the child usually have to

· Reluctance to participate in social activities , or even go to school

· Worsening academic performance and increased absenteeism

As parents , we must protect our children responsibly physical and psychological damage caused by excess weight . It begins with the establishment of a healthy diet and exercise.