Overweight and Obese Children have more Problems with Their Peers

:steadyhealth.com

2013/01/16

841

Heavier children are more likely to face social and emotional problems as they grow up. They are more likely to be bullied by their peers and are likely to struggle in their social relationships as early as when they are eight to nine years old.

Heavier Children are more likely to Face Social and Emotional Problems as They Grow Up

We have often seen that obese individuals are at the receiving end in a social gathering. Leaner individuals often crack a joke at their expense and they are more likely to be a subject for ridicule. However, have you ever wondered what is the treatment meted out to obese and overweight children? A recent Australian study published in the journal Pediatrics, has found that heavier children are more likely to face social and emotional problems as they grow up. They are more likely to be bullied by their peers and are likely to struggle in their social relationships as early as when they are eight to nine years old.

The study was taken up to find the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and quality of life of young children. 3363 children participated in the study. Their parents and teachers were interviewed, first when the children were four to five years of age, and again after four years. They were questioned regarding the children’s mental and behavioral health and whether they were suffering from any emotional problems, hyperactivity or inadequate social skills. The BMI of the children was also measured.