Obesity is one of the most significant health concerns across the world, particularly in developed countries, and there is no evidence to suggest that obesity is becoming less prevalent. There are many physical, psychological and social consequences from being obese. Nevertheless, interventions to date have been generally unsuccessful at providing long lasting effects. Furthermore, there has been a general lack of attention given to non-weight factors relating to overall well-being. The literature review presented in chapter 1 critically evaluates the research to date exploring the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions for overweight and obese adults. The promising initial indications that this ‘third-wave’ approach offers are discussed within the methodological limitations of current research. Clinically, the approach appears to have potential, although future research should aim to have greater consistency in defining what constitutes a mindfulness approach. The empirical paper presented in chapter two explores how the attributions made by trainee teachers about the cause of weight gain may impact on helping behaviour in a school setting. A mixed methodology questionnaire design is used. This incorporates a vignette about a significantly overweight child and a series of open ended questions to explore the factors that trainee teachers see as key considerations for making interventions for obese children more effective. The results are discussed within the context of how healthcare professionals may offer a valuable role in training and coordinating intervention efforts. The final chapter is a reflective paper summarising some personal, professional and academic experiences that occurred during my thesis. Current and alternative approaches taken towards childhood obesity are discussed and reflected upon.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:582220 |
| Date | January 2012 |
| Creators | Holmes, Benjamin E. |
| Publisher | University of Warwick |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Source | http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/55942/ |
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