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Overweight and Obesity Among Youth Entering Residential Care: Prevalence and Correlates |
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| Authors: | Timothy D. Nelson Kimberly A. Haugen Jennifer L. Resetar Volz Elizabeth J. Zhe Michael I. Axelrod Stephanie Spear Filigno |
| Affiliation: | 1. Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USAtnelson3@unl.edu;3. Boys Town Center for Behavioral Health, Boys Town, Nebraska, USA;4. Bear, Delaware, USA;5. The Howard School, Atlanta, Georgia, USA;6. Human Development Center, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA;7. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA |
| Abstract: | Little is known about the prevalence of clinical weight problems for youth living in residential care. Therefore, this study examined the prevalence and correlates of overweight and obesity in a large sample of youth (N = 1709) entering a residential care program. Results indicated that 48% of youth were overweight or obese at the time of intake, which is much higher than national pediatric rates. Females had higher rates of overweight/obesity, as did youth referred from moderately restrictive placements such as foster care. Youth who were overweight/obese had greater internalizing symptoms at intake. Clinical and research implications are discussed. |
| Keywords: | medications mental health obesity overweight residential youth |