A review of traditional (such as psychotherapy) and behavioral approaches (such as self-monitoring and reinforcement) to obesity treatment of mentally retarded students led to the conclusion that the behavioral orientation was more successful. Implications for initiating such programs include thorough training, voluntary participation, and parent…

The paper summarizes characteristics of the child with Prader-Willi Syndrome (characterized by insatiable appetite and usually mild to moderate mental retardation). Suggestions are offered for the environmental and behavioral management of the Prader Willi student. (DB)

The preoccupation of some female sports enthusiasts with thinness is frequently symptomatic of underlaying emotional problems. This article examines the problem and makes suggestions to enable coaches to cope with these athletes. (MT)

This manual is for use in a school-based program to help overweight students practice eating and exercise behaviors and develop strategies focusing on positive lifestyle choices. The resource guide and curriculum is arranged in three sections: (1) "Get Ready" explains how to use the book; (2) "Get Set" explains the goals for the program and…

The importance of educating students about obesity is stressed. Desirable instructional goals include: (1) providing accurate information about obesity; (2) preventing obesity (if possible); (3) treating it; and (4) making students aware that much of the prejudice against fat people is irrational. (PP)

Eating disorders among teens and younger children have reached epidemic levels. The school's primary role in helping students who may have eating disorders is referring them to specialists. Schools can also help students learn good eating habits and designate a resource person to serve as a liaison with community medical and mental health…

This module includes six lessons which focus on issues related to body image and self-esteem, eating disorders, and sensible eating habits for adolescents in grades 9-12. In lesson 1, students examine influences on body image, assess their personal traits, and trade assessments with their peers. In lesson 2, students look at pressure and…

Intended for use in Florida training programs for caregivers of infants and toddlers with disabilities, this guide presents an overview of the Model of Interdisciplinary Training for Children with Handicaps (MITCH); offers a user's guide to the series; and provides specific information for presenting Module 10, which focuses on nutrition and…

Examines alternate determinants of obesity, evaluates the efforts and results of current weight management programs, offers suggestions for change from traditional weight control programs, and discusses implications for health education. Comprehensive health education must include behavioral, cognitive, social, and nutritional components to…

The attitudes of college students toward diet and exercise were studied, with attention to whether attitudes varied by race and sex. A survey, which included items from the Eating Attitudes Test, was administered to 727 entering freshmen: 305 white females, 286 white males, 46 black females, and 38 black males. The findings showed that diet and…

This module, oriented toward middle school students in grades 5-8, includes nine lessons designed to help students synthesize nutritional information and use it to improve their health. In lesson 1, students look at factors that influence food choices. Lesson 2 uses creative expression activities to help students learn about the role of nutrients.…

This book presents a comprehensive review of anorexia nervosa and bulimia and the roles that schools can have in preventing, identifying, and treating these disorders. Chapter 1 provides an overview of student eating disorders and presents a case study of a high school student with an eating disorder. Chapter 2 discusses the nature of anorexia…

Obesity prevalence has increased dramatically in the United States. Rural areas have been especially affected, yet few weight management studies have been conducted in these populations. This study was designed to assess weight management attitudes and strategies used when rural adults in particular attempt to lose weight, employing measures that…