[WATCH]: Emotionally challenges with childhood obesity - Boston Children's Hospital - To 20 Health Challenges

How do gender differences and body image issues influence childhood obesity, and how should programs to address childhood obesity take these differences into account? All obese children and adolescents can suffer emotionally from teasing, abuse and discrimination, though the specifics can vary by gender, racial-ethnic group and socio-economic level. For example, a boy from a violent inner city area may feel that some extra weight helps protect him from aggression. Ultimately, obesity prevention programs will succeed best if they address the full range of emotional and psychological needs of the child. The Optimal Weight for Life program at Boston Children's Hospital has a team of mental health professionals, including psychologists

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