The obese child: motivation as a tool for exercise.
The purpose of this article is to describe the importance of motivation in enhancing the participation of obese children in exercise activities. Recognizing the different influence that are important determinants of exercise behavior in children may help pediatric nurse practitioners play a significant role in advising parents and others of the need to offer positive, constructive, and immediate feedback without being evaluative, critical, or demanding. By addressing the problems of obesity and low fitness levels early in the child's life, a significant step can be taken toward reversing the negative trends of this unhealthy and potentially dangerous condition.
McWhorter
J Wesley
JW
Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas 89154, USA. jmcwhorter@ccmail.nevada.edu
Wallmann
Harvey W
HW
Alpert
Patricia T
PT
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008019:Life Style; D009042:Motivation; D009765:Obesity / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D010371:Pediatric Nursing / Q000379:methods