Discuss the root causes and rates of childhood obesity in the U.S.  Explore THREE contributors to childhood obesity .  Describe THREE realistic, family or school-based approaches to addressing childhood obesity.

Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)
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ISBN:9780134477961
Author:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White
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Chapter1: The Science Of Psychology
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Discuss the root causes and rates of childhood obesity in the U.S. 

Explore THREE contributors to childhood obesity . 

Describe THREE realistic, family or school-based approaches to addressing childhood obesity.

Expert Solution
Introduction

Childhood obesity is a serious public health issue in the United States. Rates of childhood obesity have been steadily increasing over the past few decades.

The latest statistics related to childhood obesity in the US are from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 2017 to 2018, by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It shows that:

  • The prevalence of obesity among US children and adolescents aged 2-19 years was 19.3%.
  • The prevalence of severe obesity among US children and adolescents aged 2-19 years was 6.1%.

Root Causes of Childhood Obesity:

1. Unhealthy Diets

In America, their diet is often high in calories, sugar, and fat. Moreover, many children are not getting enough fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods. Many children also consume a lot of sugary drinks and snacks, which can contribute to weight gain.

2. Lack of Physical Activity

Many children spend a lot of time sitting and engaging in sedentary activities, such as watching TV or playing video games. This lack of physical activity can contribute to weight gain and obesity.

3. Environmental Factors

Children are often surrounded by environments that make it difficult to eat healthy and be active. For example, many schools do not provide healthy food options or opportunities for physical activity, and many neighbourhoods lack places to play and exercise.

Contributors to Childhood Obesity

Contributors refer to the various factors that contribute to a problem, but may not necessarily be the underlying or fundamental reasons why the problem exists. These could be:

1. Sugary drinks and snacks

Consuming too many sugary drinks and snacks can contribute to weight gain.

2. Eating out or fast food

Frequent consumption of fast food or eating out at restaurants can lead to unhealthy eating habits.

3. Biological factors or Genetics 

Genetics play a role in obesity. Some studies have suggested that there may be genetic factors that put people at risk of gaining weight or obesity.

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