The effects of weight management programs on self-esteem in pediatric overweight populations.
OBJECTIVE
Review published findings on self-esteem and pediatric overweight, and changes in self-esteem subsequent to weight management programs.


METHODS
We used PsycInfo and MedLine searches to identify peer-reviewed journal articles examining self-esteem changes following participation in weight management programs.


RESULTS
Data regarding the relationship between self-esteem and obesity is mixed. Factors that place overweight children "at-risk" for low self-esteem include early adolescence, female gender, identification with majority cultural standards of body shape, exposure to teasing and peer victimization, a history of greater parental control over feeding, and internal attributions about weight status. Data from intervention studies suggest positive effects on self-esteem across settings. Components related to self-esteem improvements include weight change, parent involvement, and group intervention format.


CONCLUSIONS
Well-designed, longitudinal studies using multidimensional measures of self-esteem, and following CONSORT guidelines are needed to confirm and expand these findings. Emphasis should be placed on examining mediators and moderators of self-esteem change.
Lowry
Kelly Walker
KW
Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, 101 South Newell Dr., Room #3151, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
Sallinen
Bethany J
BJ
Janicke
David M
DM
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009765:Obesity / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D050177:Overweight / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012649:Self Concept; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss