Adolescent Girls With Overweight and Obesity Feel Physically Healthy and Highlight the Importance of Mental Health

Abstract

Introduction Obesity in adolescence is a significant ongoing public health problem that has not improved over the past decade. Objective This descriptive qualitative study explores the perspective of female adolescents who are overweight or obese regarding their views on health and weight within the clinic setting. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted with female adolescents (age 13–19 years old; BMI ≥85th percentile) from the mid-west region of the United States (N = 28). Inductive thematic analysis using Braun & Clarke’s methods was utilized. Results The findings from this study revealed that the adolescents’ view of health encompasses physical, mental, and psychosocial health dimensions, and despite being overweight and obese, the participants felt healthy. Participants discussed the need to eat healthier and increase their daily physical activity, but were unable to transform this into action. Within the clinical setting, the adolescents were sensitive to weight discussions. Conclusion Results from this study can increase providers’ understanding of the adolescent, increase awareness of adolescent sensitivity, and assist researchers in developing age-appropriate interventions for effective treatment and prevention of childhood obesity.