Objective: To extend findings from experimental price elasticity studies by examining these effects in a field setting and identifying gender differences in purchasing behaviour in response to variations in the cost of lower energy-dense (ED) and higher ED foods. Setting: Data were collected from low- and median-income male and female grocery…

Examines obesity, arguing for establishment of "reasonable weight," which may differ from health and aesthetic ideals. Integrates information of etiology, social beliefs about body weight, theory, and treatment into comprehensive intervention model. Sees advances in treatment most likely when research is driven by theory on etiology of weight…

Explores similarities between normal dieters and individuals with eating disorders. Compares regulation of intake among normal dieter and patient populations, using the boundary model of consumption. Concludes that in neither group is eating technically disordered, though it departs from appropriate physiological norms, and that many normal eaters…

Discusses clinical observations of women (N=100) with eating problems, focusing on emotional issues as well as how these women use food as a coping mechanism. Reported that therapy helped these women shed anxiety and fear about food and to see eating as something they consciously choose to do. (LLL)

Suggests integrating eating disorders and weight management (ED/WM) guidance units in existing junior and senior high school programs. Outlines rationale for ED/WM units, identifies goals of interventions, discusses general information regarding practical implementation of model, and presents three potential program components (cognitive,…

Describes limitations of the psychological view that has dominated obesity research. The "brand" of psychology represented is assessed on its conceptual strengths, its implications for intervention program development, and its consequences for the delivery of services to people in communities. Suggests use of a human development model.…

Reviews research which distinguishes various points along the continuum from normal eating habits to clinically diagnosed eating disorders. Focuses on nonclinical intermediate points and proposes intervention strategies for women experiencing difficulties with weight, body image, and/or eating. Contends further research is necessary for greater…

Examines whether physical fitness levels in U.S. children and youth have changed over time. Research indicates that weight and skinfolds have increased over 50 years and distance run times have worsened over 10 years. The article includes information on relationships between cardiovascular fitness and coronary heart disease risks in children. (SM)

Following a review of research literature on eating disorders and the fitness image, the report finds that five socio-cultural influences have been associated with the increase and prevalence of eating disorders: the pressure to be thin; glorification of youth; the changing role of females; media image and marketing of the super woman; and the…

Examines facts about eating disorders, which typically affect females in their teens, discussing the causes of anorexia and bulimia, describing their effects on the body, and explaining available treatment. Though eating disorders are very serious and potentially fatal, they are treatable. Treatment includes physician evaluation, possible…

Presents an update on the Year 2000 objectives for the nation that establish targets in 22 priority areas. The article offers information from a study on exercise by the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, reviews Healthy People 2000 data, and lists Year 2000 physical activity and fitness objectives. (SM)

Social norms regarding women's drinking have relaxed over the past few decades and, on college campuses, the gap between the percentages of female (79%) and male (86%) students who report that they use alcohol is smaller than ever. This situation presents a particular challenge to college administrators. The Alcohol Education and Training Program…

Reviews psychological research suggesting that conditioning and social modeling procedures contribute to the formation and modification of the affective components of eating behavior. (DS)

Reviews advancements in psychology relating to nutrition education, including models for explaining food choice and strategies for treating obesity, comprehensive nutrition education programs, use in one-to-one counseling, and community nutrition behavior change. Describes the Heart Health Program, a social learning nutrition change curriculum.…