Additional information
by Amy B. Jordan (Editor)
For the past several years, researchers have been examining possible causes of the rise in of childhood overweight and obesity in the U.S. Now at near-epidemic proportions, the time has come to really delve into the causes of overweight children and propose some practical solutions to help the 9 million children in this country who are overweight.
Taking an interdisciplinary approach, this special issue of The ANNALS inspects the social problem of childhood obesity from various angles and uses empirically based, creative suggestions for overcoming and preventing unhealthy lifestyles. The authors of this special issue include health care practitioners, social scientists, philanthropists, advocates, and policy makers who understand that this is a complex issue made up of a myriad of factors.
Ready to tackle this ubiquitous problem, the authors recognize that the contexts that shape weight status for children overlap in their influence. Specifically, the insightful articles in this special issue evaluate the following factors:
- Influence of parents
- Opportunities for exercise
- Access to healthy food choices
- Media influences
Focusing on these and other determinants through an interdisciplinary lens, this compelling issue highlights policy initiatives that would provide families and educators with the necessary tools for teaching healthy lifestyles.
Researchers, practitioners, policy makers, and students in a variety of disciplines - as well as educators - will find this to be an inspiring resource to understand and take measures against the rising problem of childhood obesity.
Author Biography
Amy B. Jordan is director of the Media and the Developing Child sector of the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, where she oversees research on children′s media policy. Her studies have examined the implementation and public reception of the educational television mandate known as the Three-Hour Rule, the V-Chip legislation, the American Academy of Pediatrics′ media use recommendations and the industry′s efforts to self-regulate food marketing to children. Dr. Jordan has published the findings of her research in dozens of peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, and has edited special issues of academic journals, including the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, and The Bulletin. Dr. Jordan is the recipient of the International Communication Association′s Best Applied/Policy Research Award and the National Communication Association′s Stanley L. Saxon Applied Research Award.
