The purpose of this paper is to identify a current issue in lifespan development that has been of personal interest. This issue will draw many questions, concerns, identify features that are increasingly noticeable, and can hinder development in what we would consider to be normal periods of development.
             Childhood obesity is an issue that has been an increasing dilemma more so over the past few decades. This particular issue is of great interest to me because the adverse effects it has psychologically and I work in a school system where it is obesity is prevalent. When we talk in terms of obesity in children it can modify and create issues in the processes of biological, behavioral, and social cognitive, ethological, ecological aspects of development. How does obesity happen? How does this affect the course of childhood through adulthood? Who is responsible?
             Obesity is attributed to a possible lack of motivation that stems from parents, peers, and the environment in which a child lives. This sensitive issue certainly is a gradual process that occurs over time and does not happen overnight. I observe too often poor eating habits and more so now in a fast paced society where fast food has become the norm over home cooked meals. It is also important to state that with both parents or single parent homes where work is crucial, there is greater responsibility for children to make more decisions for themselves in regards to eating for there is no guidance. Schools were scrutinized more recently over the years and have modified food choices and portions that help aid in reducing the intake of food consumed by all children. This is a positive step in the right direction, but it is what lies outside the school walls that is a major contributor and is of greater concern, for it is not a consistent routine. Which leads to an important feature which is limited physical activity; meaning there is no motivation to go running, biking, or just ...