Childhood Obesity - Do you have an overweight child? We offer tips to help your child lose weight and get fit!

The My Overweight Child blog will help you keep informed about the latest research, findings, and resources available to parents of overweight or obese kids. There are many knowledgeable people working on the increasingly dire problem of childhood obesity - and we want to give parents a place where they can check in regularly to see the latest studies and tips available to help you help your child lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

We invite you to add your comments - if you have feedback for the blog, would like some specific topics covered, or you just want to share your experience as a parent dealing with childhood obesity.

Monday, March 05, 2007

Overweight and Sensitivity to Rejection

If your overweight child seems to be overly sensitive to anticipated rejection from others due to her appearance, beware. When self-worth is based entirely upon appearance, it's harmful for both mental and physical health, according to new research by Lora Park, Ph.D., a University at Buffalo psychologist. Sensitivity to rejection can lead to development of excessive dieting, compulsive exercising, binging and purgingas well as lowered self-esteem.

The good news is that you can do something to reduce the damaging effects of thinking negatively about appearance by reminding your child of her personal strengths. Daily affirmations of personal strengths help people cope with insecurities regarding appearance, says Park.

Another intervention that helps, according to Parks' research, is reminders that there are those who care. Reminding your child that many people love him can improve self-esteem and minimize sensitivity to rejection.

Labels: mental_health, physical_health, rejection

Posted By: Aspen Education Group