Cognitive Behavior-Based Programming to Increase Physical Activity and Control Overweight/Obesity in Youth: An 18-Year Research Program Informing Novel Curricula.

IntroductionBecause only 42% of elementary school-aged children and 8% of adolescents complete the recommended amount of physical activity, programs beyond physical education are required to address this inadequacy and the associated rise in overweight/obesity. ObjectiveOur 18-year research program, conducted through the lens of accepted behavioral theory, field-based investigations, and predictive models intended to shape programs to address physical inactivity and high body mass index in youths, was reviewed. ResultsIn research-to-practice task 1, studies evaluated a cognitive-behavioral elementary afterschool treatment developed from principles of social cognitive theory. It provided exercise/physical activity through an individualized goal-setting perspective and training in self-regulatory skills such as restructuring unproductive self-talk. In task 2, the research program focused on favorable associations between treatment-induced improvements in physical self-concept, the overall self, physical appearance, exercise-related self-efficacy, and mood; it also focused on increased physical activity and reductions in excess weight. Program adaptations for preschool and middle school were also found productive. As the treatment model was extended in research-to-practice task 3, a refined focus on self-regulation, self-efficacy, and mood yielded findings of enhanced effects. In task 4, protocol adaptations intended for youths with severe obesity, additional diabetes risks, and candidacies for bariatric surgery were reported. Finally, the reviewed research evaluated treatment adjuncts that incorporate technology. ConclusionOur program of field research yielded progress on physical inactivity and high body mass index in youths via psychosocial pathways. Findings suggested medical professionals more strongly attend to physical inactivity and weight issues in their young patients while seeking evidence-based methods to induce ongoing behavioral progress.