title: Development differences in the conceptualization of obesity.
abstract: Development differences in the conceptualization of obesity were investigated in children ranging in age from 5 to 11 years. Perceived causes, cures, and attitudes about obesity were assessed through individual interviews. Answers differed in content as well a complexity. A preliminary category system was developed to describe these differences. Responses showed certain consistencies, particularly the emphasis on certain foods as the cause of overweight and the negative perception of obesity. The implications of these findings for nutrition education programs are discussed.
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D001290:Attitude; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009765:Obesity; D002666:Psychology, Child; D012737:Sex Factors