Sociocultural and psychological considerations of pediatric obesity and eating disorder symptomatology in Canadian immigrants

Abstract

This article reviews pediatric obesity and eating disorders in the context of unique issues facing immigrants. Sociocultural factors such as the obesogenic environment and unhealthy food and exercise habits as well as psychological factors such as acculturation and fat oppression have been identified as important in understanding and preventing obesity and other eating disorders. In particular, survey data are presented to show that an immigrant's age of first introduction to Canadian culture and subsequent enculturation over the lifespan are highly predictive of eating disorder symptomatology. The possible causal connection between obesity and eating disorder symptomatology is discussed. Recommendations for research, practice and prevention agendas are outlined in the aim of promoting pediatric health and wellness.

Keywords

Pediatrics - overweight - obesity - eating disorder symptomatology - health - immigrants - Canada