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Psychological Factors Related to Eating and Activity Behaviors

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Part of the book series: Sports Medicine and Health Science ((SMHS))

Abstract

Effective design and evaluation of obesity treatment programs that focus on behavioral and lifestyle change requires an understanding of related psychological factors. Several psychosocial issues appear to have etiological significance in obesity;however, the extent to which each of these factors contributes to the state of obesity of a given individual is variable [1–4]. It is, therefore, critical to identify the underlying causes of obesity on an individual basis, develop appropriate treatment goals, and monitor change throughout the course of treatment. Unfortunately, simple straightforward procedures are not available to objectively and systematically evaluate the obese person from a psychological viewpoint.

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Storlie, J. (1984). Psychological Factors Related to Eating and Activity Behaviors. In: Storlie, J., Jordan, H.A. (eds) Evaluation and Treatment of Obesity. Sports Medicine and Health Science. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-6716-1_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-6716-1_6

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Dordrecht

  • Print ISBN: 978-94-011-6718-5

  • Online ISBN: 978-94-011-6716-1

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