DOI

https://doi.org/10.25772/W0N0-6P79

Defense Date

2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Suzanne Mazzeo

Second Advisor

Marilyn Stern

Third Advisor

Ronald Evans

Fourth Advisor

Leroy Thacker

Abstract

Overweight and obesity are associated with an array of negative physical and psychosocial symptoms in adolescents. Numerous pediatric obesity interventions have emerged in an attempt to address this significant public health concern. However, few have focused on African American females, a particularly high risk group for negative health behaviors and associated complications. Moreover, research examining the psychosocial changes associated with increases in physical activity and fitness, although promising in elder and adult populations, is nearly nonexistent in adolescents. Thus, the current study addressed limitations in the research and examined the psychosocial outcomes of adolescent participants in T.E.E.N.S., a culturally sensitive, multidisciplinary weight loss intervention. From baseline to 6 month post-testing, program participants demonstrated significant improvements in physical, emotional, and social functioning, as well as body dissatisfaction. Moreover, increases in physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness were associated with significant enhancements in several domains of psychological well-being.

Rights

© The Author

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

May 2009

Included in

Psychology Commons

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