Development of a Multi-Disciplinary Intervention for the Treatment of Childhood Obesity Based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Abstract

Along the lines of the evidence-based recommendations, we developed a multi-disciplinary intervention for overweight children 7- to 12-years-old, primarily aiming at helping children to adopt healthier eating habits and a physically active lifestyle. The program combined nutrition intervention, based on a non-dieting approach, with physical activity intervention, implemented through the basic principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with parental support. The program was conducted by dieticians with the collaboration of child psychiatrists and pediatricians. Training and regular supervision upon CBT priniciples application was intended to enhance dieticians' efficiency. The intervention is currently being evaluated to determine its effectiveness in treating childhood obesity.

KEYWORDS:

• children
• cognitive behavioral techniques
• non-dieting approach
• obesity
• parental involvement
• supervision

Notes

Note.

^a [(current BMI – BMI cut-off for overweight)/BMI cut-off for overweight] × 100, where BMI cut-offs are based on Cole et al., 2000

^b weight (kg)/height² (m²);

^c Braet & Van Strien, 1997;

^d Gioxari et al., 2005;

^e Battle, 1981; Kovacs, 1985; Liakos & Giannitsi, 1984; Roussos et al., 1999, respectively;

^f Beck & Steer, 1993; Miller, Epstein, Bishop, & Keitner,1983, respectively.