THE ROLE OF PSYCHO-EMOTIONAL FACTORS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Анотація

Childhood obesity has become one of the most critical global health concerns of the 21st century, significantly affecting the physical, psychological, and social well-being of children. Over the last few decades, the prevalence of childhood obesity has risen dramatically, leading to a higher incidence of comorbid conditions such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. These health risks not only contribute to the overall burden of chronic diseases but also have profound psycho-social implications. Psychological factors such as emotional stress, low self-esteem, social isolation, and emotional eating are emerging as significant determinants of childhood obesity, influencing both its onset and progression. Emotional eating, a common coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or depression, often leads children to consume unhealthy foods, thus further exacerbating the weight gain. Moreover, children who are obese frequently face social stigmatization, bullying, and mental health issues, all of which contribute to a vicious cycle of emotional distress and overeating. This article reviews current scientific evidence on the role of psycho-emotional factors in childhood obesity, exploring the intricate relationship between emotional eating, stress, depression, and social isolation. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive interventions that address both the psychological and physiological aspects of childhood obesity. Psychological treatments, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy, have shown promising results in reducing emotional eating and improving mental health. However, more research is necessary to fully understand the complex interaction between these factors and develop more effective prevention and treatment strategies. The increasing recognition of the role of psycho-emotional factors in childhood obesity highlights the importance of addressing these aspects in both clinical and public health practices.

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