ABSTRACT
Physical activity behaviors, in addition to eating behaviors and environmental, psychological, familial, and socio-demographic factors, are key considerations when tailoring obesity treatment programs for individual needs. Psychological factors, such as attitudes and beliefs, motivation, self-efficacy, and other physical self-perceptions, play an important role when individuals decide to participate in, and maintain, activity behavior. This chapter draws on a range of interviews conducted with severely obese children and adolescents and their families over the course of 4 years. It seeks to address the following questions: What are the physical activity experiences of obese young people? How is the physical self related to physical activity behavior? What approaches can be used to enhance self-perceptions and weight management? The chapter provides further support for the association between physical appearance and physical activity on global self-esteem. However, for many obese young people, adopting a physically active lifestyle can be hindered by a number of practical, physiological, psychological, and social circumstances.
