Abstract This paper discusses fat phobia in Western society and how it affects girls and women of all ages. The paper specifically demonstrates how overweight women are the targets of discrimination, hatred and fat-phobia. The paper defines the terms 'fat', 'overweight' and 'obese' and then examines the ways in which fat women are discriminated against.
Table of Content:
Body Image Issues Since 1900
Fat Oppression and Women
From the Paper "Women are far from merely oppressed from the outside. They have internalized the fears and phobias towards fatness, maintaining lives of undue discipline and self-policing of behavior. How many women count their calories or read nutrition labels for fat content while insisting they are not dieting? Women manipulate their lives so that food appears to be a non-issue for them. Men will often whine that they are annoyed when women won't eat in their presence, yet women believe they are doing that so men will find them more attractive. The oppression of fatness in our culture is not one that only affects those deemed 'medically overweight.' Pick up any magazine or watch any television show (particularly during daytime TV) and you will realize how prevalent notions of 'thin is the only option' are. The fat woman in the ad is often portrayed as lonely, searching for a new career and looking for that perfect love. The only way she can ever achieve these goals is to be thin, at any cost."
Abstract This paper questions whether the Atkins diet can solve obesity and Type 2 Diabetes epidemics in the United States. It looks at the make-up of the diet and its vital components and explains the health aspects of nutritional component. This is then examined as to whether the diet can really provide a solution to major diseases connected to obesity in the United States.
From the Paper "Studies show that 64.5% of all Americans are overweight, and 30.5% of those are obese (Harvard Men's Health Watch). The real concern is that "obesity is directly responsible for 300,000-400,000 deaths in the U.S. each year, nearly as many as smoking," reports the Harvard Medical School. How is America dealing with this major obesity epidemic? A majority of these overweight Americans are turning to the latest controversial "fad" diet referred to as the "Atkins diet.? As of December 1, 2002, the Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution paperback has dominated the New York Times best"seller list for over five years (New York Times). The Atkins diet is attractive to many people because it offers weight loss without starvation; not only does it shed off pounds without starving, but also without counting calories as one would on a traditional low-fat diet. But here is the catch"you must get rid of your sweet tooth! In addition, the Atkins diet appears to offer a solution to adult-onset, type 2 diabetes, which is also another major health epidemic in the United States. ?Approximately 17 million people in the United States, or 6.2% of the population, have diabetes,? most of which is adult-onset, type 2 diabetes, reports the American Diabetes Association. Although the Atkins diet has become an increasingly popular method for losing weight and may provide a solution to type 2 diabetes, ongoing controversy among medical researchers indicates that further research is necessary in order to deem it safe."
Abstract This paper deals with the epidemic problem of childhood obesity. It ties in a position statement which states that childhood obesity could be successfully affected by a healthful diet and proper nutrition planning. This paper examines the problem, defines the scope of analysis, states the problem and position and focuses on diet and nutrition planning issues, the role of schools in healthfully dealing with the overweight or obese child and then turns to the lack of necessary public policies.
From the Paper "Statistics regarding childhood obesity are staggering. According to contemporary research, rates of obesity among children and adolescents have virtually doubled within the last two decades in most all developed countries (Nicholls and Viner 952; Lobstein 1; Story, Kaphingst and French 144; Mendelson 1; Nowicka 23; Lobstein and Bauer 576). Veugelers and Fitzgerald put the figure as high as having increased by a factor of four. Story, Kaphingst and French state that approximately 25% of all preschoolers are either overweight or are at risk of becoming overweight."
Abstract This research paper attempts to identify the particular problems that arise from obesity and how they affect the couple relationship. The paper is a qualitative study that looks at the experiences of obesity and weight loss from the standpoint of the obese individual, their non-obese partner, and the couple.
Overview of the Study
Introduction to the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Need for the Study
Theoretical Framework
Definition of Terms
Research Questions
Literature about the Problem of Obesity Hypothesized Interactional Patterns
Obesity and Poor Self/Body Image
Weight and Self-Esteem/Body Image
The Link Between Mind and Body
Psychopathology and Psychological Distress
on the Individual and Within the Marital Relationship
Obesity as a Mental Disorder
Obesity, Marital Satisfaction, and Intimacy in the Couple Relationship
Obesity, Psychopathology, and Marital Satisfaction in the Couple
Relationship
Obesity and Sexuality in the Couple Relationship
Obesity and Partner Support
PhotoTherapy
Rationale for the Methodology
Semi-Structured Interviews
Population, Setting and Sample
Subjects
Procedure
Instruments
Researcher Information and Biases
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Ethical Considerations
Trustworthiness of the Data
From the Paper "Literature about the problem of obesity indicates that it is attributable to a host of other problems that likewise contribute to the pain and suffering of these individuals. This includes problems with physical health, as well as emotional difficulties, and these will be covered in Chapter Two. Many of these problems are psychological in nature; however, the psychological problems that come from being obese can be equally, or even more, destructive to the individual than the largely recognized physiological problems. Both the experience of obesity and the treatment of weight loss need to be focused upon if the associated psychological effects and problems are to be identified and treated. Unchecked, these problems can help to perpetuate the cycle of obesity and weight loss, maintaining the high rate of recidivism associated with weight loss treatment programs."
Abstract This paper claims that it is becoming obvious that there are numerous causes for the obesity epidemic in America, ranging from easy accessibility of food of all sorts, diminished opportunities to walk as part of daily life, invention of attractive sedentary activities such as computer game playing, genetic factors and possibly others as yet undiscovered. The paper contends that in order to change this process, the attention and cooperation of adult Americans is needed. The paper assesses that pointing out the immediacy of the problems caused by obesity is a place to start; educating American adults about the most effective food choices is another, as is encouraging exercise. The paper explains that because the connection between the myriad health problems is not of concern to most Americans, until they have experienced ill health, it might be necessary not to frighten them away from ineffective behaviors, but to reward them for adopting effective ones. With the cost of obesity to the nation as a whole, it would seem worthwhile to investigate the possibility of rewarding companies for creating foods that more closely follow the updated guidelines and rewarding citizens for participating in nutritional education and exercise programs that enhance, rather than damage, health.
Outline
Introduction
Pockets of Obesity Obesity in Adults
Obesity in Youth
Children in WIC Program
Costs of Overweight and Obesity in Georgia
Epidemic Proportions
Etiology of Overweight and Obesity Effects of Obesity and Overweight
Reducing the Incidence of Obesity Conclusion
From the Paper "There are various concepts concerning the development of overweight and obesity, from the purely genetic to the purely environmental to a combination of the two. Spence-Jones notes that "The chronic nature of obesity develops as a result of the interaction between an individual's genetic structure, cultural influences, lifestyle behaviors, and other environmental factors" (2002). As subsets of those findings, Spence-Jones notes that some view obesity as a behavioral problem based on poor nutritional knowledge and poor eating habits, along with scant exercise. Acknowledging that possibility, Spence-Jones notes that society has experienced increased reliance on motor vehicles because of urban sprawl, removing significant daily walking from human behavior in those areas. In addition, such leisure activities as video games and computer surfing have increased the number of hours people spend in sedentary activities. In addition, Spence-Jones notes, some believe the abundance and easy accessibility of 'junk' food has contributed to the problem, as has advertising: "The food industry spends an estimated $26 billion on annual advertisement" (Spence-Jones 2002) and much of it is for fast-food chains and snack foods."
Abstract This paper relates that childhood obesity is reaching epidemic proportions all over the United States. The paper then explains that obesity can be controlled by the individual who experiences it and that, although some individuals might be unable to control obesity caused by physical factors, they might be able to reduce other factors that cause obesity. The paper then discusses how, for that reason, the city of San Diego has instituted some measures that may reduce the incidence of childhood obesity in the area. This paper then focuses on some of the causes of childhood obesity and suggests some ways for families to address the issue.
Outline:
Childhood Obesity Overview
Causes of Obesity Prevention and Treatment of Obesity Conclusion
From the Paper "Berry et al. (2004) explains that diet and exercise, as well as nutritional education, have all been proven to have an influence both on weight loss and on preventing obesity. Restricting calorie intake is proven to create the negative energy balance required to lose weight, while increased activity both enhances the speed of the weight loss and increases the probability that weight will remain off (Berry et al., 2004). One weight loss diet mentioned in the article is the "traffic light diet," also known as the glycemic index diet. This diet color codes dietary components by the number of fat grams that they contain. This diet, according to the authors, has been shown to produce a "significant short-term decrease in obesity," while it encourages improved eating patterns (Berry et al., 2004, p. 432). "
This in-depth research paper provides a qualitative examination of the physiological and psychological effects of obesity among American children as well as the factors contributing to this growing epidemic.
Abstract This well-researched paper details the results of various studies that prove obesity and overweight conditions among adolescents are the results of multiple elements. This paper explores the genetic influences that can increase an individual's susceptibility to overweight or obese conditions. This paper analyzes the factors that contribute to obesity while focusing on the genetic, environmental and parental issues. One factor that is contributing to the nation's obesity epidemic is inadequate participation in active sports by young children. This paper details the results of a study that sampled 50 physical educators to determine their perceptions of the unintended physiological and psychological consequences of childhood obesity in their classrooms. This paper looks at the nutritional and dietary habits of adolescents which determine what factors are most likely to contribute to obesity. The writer of this paper explores the social, emotional and physical effects of obesity among children. This paper details the physical effects in obese children, which prove they are more susceptible to suffering lifelong health problems such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and even orthopedic problems.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Review of the Literature
Methodology
Findings
Discussion
Conclusions
References
From the Paper "With regard to nutrition and dietary intake, the data currently available indicates that Americans are consuming more calories but are not compensating for them with increased physical activity. According to the U.S. Department of agriculture, Americans in the 1990's were consuming more food and several hundred more calories per day than they did in the 1970s. Much of this observed increase can be associated with an increase in eating away from home. A study by McCrory and colleagues found that an increasing proportion of household food income was spent on food prepared away from home and that frequently eating restaurant food was associated with being overweight. In two-career families where there is no one at home to prepare healthy meals, warming up packaged foods, picking up fast food, or dining out has become the norm. "Eating is also a form of entertainment and a forum for socializing, as the number and variety of restaurants has mushroomed in recent years." Grantmakers in Health. As a result of this, the amount of meals eaten outside the home has almost doubled in the past few decades."
Abstract Childhood obesity needs to be reduced in terms of its impact on the individual and as a consistent health problem within certain populations. The city of Toronto has recently witnessed an overall increase in childhood obesity among its residents. Obesity is recognized as a lifelong problem among affected persons and it is more difficult to overcome obesity than many other preventable health care risks. This paper examines how public planning in obesity education and diet and exercise services has been determined to have a positive impact on outcome in some communities.
From the Paper "Obesity is a significant health crisis within developed countries; abundance of high-calorie foods and a lifestyle that is low in exercise have created conditions through which it is easy to acquire physical mass and difficult to lose excess weight. There are serious secondary health risks that have been correlated to obesity and the preponderance of weight on individuals. Children seem to be strongly impacted in terms of acquisition of these secondary health risks, as Type II diabetes and cardiovascular problems are increasingly detected among children and adolescents."
Abstract This paper examines issues associated with obesity in children, including its causes and possible prevention. The author suggests that several factors lead to childhood obesity, including a sedentary lifestyle and poor dietary management. Additionally, the paper discusses the dangers of obesity, especially as they relate to adulthood and the conditions obesity may contribute to. The paper concludes with recommendations for avoiding or overcoming childhood obesity.
From the Paper "Obesity in children is now an epidemic with 16 percent of children facing this problem with 25 percent of blacks and Hispanics children being obese. The child is considered obese when his body mass index reaches above the 95th percentile. The reason we should be considered about rising rate of obesity is because children with obesity have a fairly high rate of becoming overweight or obese adults. Teens who are overweight have a 70 percent chance of carrying this weight into adulthood and the risk goes up to 80 percent for children with one obese parent. "
Abstract This paper explains that obesity is one of the most significant health problems in the United States because it affects approximately two-thirds of all Americans. The paper relates that today the primary cause of obesity is the shift to sedentary work and passive recreational activities in the second half of the 20th century. The paper further relates that obesity is a significant societal concern because the medical consequences include myriad risk factors in the development of serious conditions including diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, high cholesterol and certain forms of cancer, as well as conditions like arthritis and clinical depression.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Problem
Social Causes of Obesity Obesity as a Causes of Disease
Solution
Conclusion
From the Paper "More importantly, long-term proper weight maintenance requires reducing total fats to approximately twenty percent of caloric intake; minimal consumption of saturated trans fats, sugars, and simple carbohydrates. By definition, fast foods have no part within a long-term healthy weight maintenance programs, except as a very infrequent indulgence, because numerous well publicized national reports have demonstrated that a single typical meal from any of the most popular fast food outlets contains practically an entire day's allotment of total fat, trans fat, sugar, and sodium."
Abstract The paper looks at the roots of obesity in the United States and the serious health risks that are associated with overweight and obesity. The paper examines the new products and concepts that have emerged regarding weight loss and outlines the current solutions in the fight against obesity and unhealthy weight loss programs.
Outline:
Introduction
Historical Analysis of Obesity Reasons Obesity Began in the United States & the Causes/Effects
New Products & Concepts that have Emerged
Solutions
Conclusion
From the Paper "In the past few decades, the United States has received much criticism as a nation by doctors, researchers and government officials as being one of the fattest and unhealthy countries in the world. The United States population currently faces numerous problems regarding health issues, weight loss, and obesity. In 1962, research statistics showed that the percentage of obesity in America's population was at 13%; by 1980 it has risen to 15%; by 1994 to 23%, and by 2000 it had risen to 31%. The numbers of obese Americans continues to grow yearly, and according to new reports, 3.8 million Americans weigh over 300 pounds, the average adult woman weighs 163 pounds, and 400,000 Americans (mostly men) weigh over 400 pounds."
Abstract This paper discusses how the global epidemic of obesity is not only restricted to developed urbanized countries. As the prevailing culture and the benefits of technology advocate a less physically active and unhealthy but convenient eating habits, obesity will continue to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The paper further discusses how increasing genetic factors as well as environmental factors continue to push the age at which obesity is first detected back further than it was over twenty years ago.
From the Paper "Obesity is fast becoming an epidemic worldwide. It has been identified as a disease related to a chosen lifestyle as well as being associated with a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, Type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia. All these diseases are associated with the risk of development of metabolic syndrome. Saw and Rajan (1997) found a worldwide prevalence rate ranging between 7% in France to 32.8% in Brazil. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (2003) defines and screens obesity in terms of body mass index (BMI), which is a ratio derived from the person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of the person's height in meters. A BMI of 30 kg/m2 or more is considered obese. Independent of obesity is central adiposity, measured as waist circumference. "
Abstract In this essay the writer notes that there can scarcely be any question that obesity is a growing problem among American youth and a growing concern in the United States. Most of all, the simple reality is that there is no clear consensus on what factor contributes more so than any other to the rapid spread of obesity among young Americans. The writer discusses that some scholars favor the idea of physical inactivity as the cause, while others emphasize diet and still others insist that genetics are at play. The writer maintains that the uncertainty or ambiguity around the problem is brought into sharp relief by the fact that all of these factors undoubtedly play a role; we just do not know the precise extent to which each plays a role.
Outline:
Introduction
Obesity is a Growing Concern in the United States
Defining the Issue
Establishing that it is an Open-Ended Problem
Theory One
Theory Two
Theory Three
Discussion and Critical Evaluation of the Evidence
Quality of the Evidence
Conclusion: Solutions, Limitations and Recommendation
From the Paper "The "Obesity as a Disease" perspective. Many individuals find evidence put forward in defense of this thesis problematic inasmuch as many people who have overweight parents do not become overweight themselves; the converse is also true. The problem with this evidence is also that, with such a strong correlation between physical activity and diet and obesity, there appear to be other factors which merit greater regard from academics. At the same time, the National Institute of Health and the World Health Organization (Edlin, 2004) both recently designated obesity as a disease - even though this designation, as Hwaley's 2006 work attests, has met with scrutiny among scholars who believe that obesity does not fit the criteria for being called a disease."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that obesity is a serious problem facing the citizens of America today that could lead to a variety of problems down the road, health problems that could further strain the health care industry and ultimately affect the future economic viability of the United States. The writer looks at obese individuals and the related ensuing diseases and health issues and presents a project that focuses on the citizens residing in Brooklyn, NY and in particular the Borough Park Community. The project concentrates on assessing and educating those citizens who are most at risk or are currently suffering from the effects of obesity. The writer concludes that the project seeks to develop solutions that impact not only the local community of Borough Park, but will also influence and impact communities around the nation, and ultimately around the globe.
Outline:
Literature Review
The Plan
From the Paper " The situation is that many of the nation's citizens are eating a less-healthy diet and a diet that is rich in fats and sugars. This type of diet can lead to obesity and the problems associated with being overweight. Diseases such as diabetes and hypertension are prevalent in high-risk individuals such as people suffering from obesity. Assessing the problem as it pertains to Borough Park is the primary goal of this project. Once the assessment is finished, then a further objective would be to create an educational program that will allow for nutritional instruction designed for this specific community and its citizens."
Abstract The paper explores the obesity epidemic through a comprehensive analysis of its development, as well as through a literature review pertaining to obesity and its controversial causes. The paper explores issues of self-esteem, abandonment issues, economics and prolonged psychological stress during formative years that can have contributed to the occurrence of obesity in adult women as well as in young girls. The paper then describes the findings of independent research regarding paternal abandonment between the ages of 6-19 and its effects on adult obesity in women. The paper includes the consent form, questionnaire, and raw data used by the study.
Outline:
Abstract Introduction Statement of Problem
Hypothesis
Review of Literature
Methodology
Findings
Conclusion
Limitations
Definitions of Terms
From the Paper "Obesity is a significant and current social and physical issue in the world today. (Anderson & Butcher, 2006, p. 19) It is particularly troubling in developed nations and is currently labeled and epidemic in the United States. Many people seek to find answers to the obesity question within the biological and physical spheres of study, blaming the entire situation of obesity on the poor eating habits and low level of physical activity of those who suffer from it. One area of obesity research that has been neglected is its connection to psychological factors. The psychology of obesity is a significant and demonstrative factor in the behaviors that cause obesity as well as in its manifestation, which has recently become increasingly youthful, with children as young as two-five showing early symptoms of obesity as well as a potential future of obesity into adulthood. (Anderson & Butcher, 2006, p. 19)"
