Obesity is a condition marked by excess accumulation of body fat. Genetic factors play a key role in obesity, but so do behavioral factors—especially eating too much and exercising too little.
Obesity can lead to diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and other problems. Some researchers believe that obesity is second only to smoking as a preventable cause of death.
Adapted from Encyclopedia of Psychology
Resources from APA
Speaking of Psychology: Can an app improve your health? With Gary Bennett, PhD
How digital interventions can help address obesity and other public health challenges, how to find apps that are effective and backed by research, the challenge of weight stigma, and more.
Weight gain is on the rise, but shaming people won't reverse the trend.
Weight gain and disordered eating spiked during the stress of the pandemic. Health psychologists discuss why it matters—and how to get back on track.
Even mild obesity can put people at risk for serious COVID-19 complications. New research and interventions from psychologists could help people who want to lose the weight.
Family-based behavioral treatment is key to addressing childhood obesity
Behind the number on the scale is a complicated equation that involves genetics, behavior, and powerful social and environmental forces
Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Obesity and Overweight in Children and Adolescents
The guideline recommends interventions for the treatment of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents aged 2–18. Recommendations are based on the scientific evidence, the benefits and harms of interventions, what is known about patient values and preferences, and applicability of the evidence across demographic groups and settings.
News from APA
APA’s Stress in America ™ poll reveals secondary pandemic health crisis; parents, essential workers, communities of color more likely to report mental, physical health consequences
Weight-Based Bullying Linked to Increased Adolescent Alcohol, Marijuana Use
Overweight girls most likely to report being bullied, study finds
Fat Shaming in the Doctor's Office Can Be Mentally and Physically Harmful
Health care providers may offer weight loss advice in place of medical treatment, researchers say
Podcasts
Continuing education
Acceptance-Based Approaches for Weight and Body Image Concerns: WS303
Challenge stereotypes about current research on weight loss interventions, healthful eating approaches, and causes and health effects of higher body weight.
Acceptance Based Approaches for Obesity and Client Weight Concerns
Challenge stereotypes about current research on behavioral weight loss interventions, healthful eating approaches and the health effects of obesity.
Family-Based Behavioral Treatment is Key to Addressing Childhood Obesity
Discuss the key findings of APA’s new clinical practice guideline for treating obesity and overweight in children.
Obesity in Youth: Causes, Consequences, and Cures
Describe the influence of the 'toxic environment' and the media, alterations in school environment and sociohistorical changes in dietary patterns on child and adolescent physical activity and eating patterns.
