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A Review of Childhood Behavioral Problems and Disorders in the Development of Obesity: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Beyond

  • Etiology of Obesity (T Gill, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Given the high rates of pediatric and adult obesity, it is imperative to identify early risk factors that might contribute to excess weight gain. This review aims to investigate the relationship between childhood behavioral problems with the development and persistence of obesity. Specifically, this review highlights the association of obesity with (1) neurocognitive constructs, such as executive functioning and inhibition/impulsivity, and (2) disorders commonly diagnosed in childhood, including attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Recent Findings

Consistent evidence supports a relationship between childhood behavioral problems, executive functioning, inhibition/impulsivity, ADHD, and ASD with obesity across the lifespan. Longitudinal studies suggest behavior problems, neurocognitive functioning deficits, and ADHD symptoms in childhood predict weight gain over time.

Summary

Identifying risk factors in childhood that promote obesity may help develop targeted intervention and prevention programs. Additional research should elucidate mechanisms that account for these relationships.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego, 6363 Alvarado Court, San Diego, CA, 92120, USA

    Brittany E. Matheson

  2. Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, 8950 Villa La Jolla Dr. Suite C-203, San Diego, CA, 92037, USA

    Brittany E. Matheson

  3. Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, 8950 Villa La Jolla Dr. Suite C-203, San Diego, CA, 92037, USA

    Dawn M. Eichen

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Brittany E. Matheson and Dawn M. Eichen declare they have no conflict of interest.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Etiology of Obesity

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Matheson, B.E., Eichen, D.M. A Review of Childhood Behavioral Problems and Disorders in the Development of Obesity: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Beyond. Curr Obes Rep 7, 19–26 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13679-018-0293-z

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