Abstract
Increased rates of obesity among youth have led to a growth in clinically-based and commercially available weight loss programs for youth. While obesity has been associated with negative physical, emotional, and psychological consequences, programs have primarily aimed to improve youths' physical health. The purpose of this study was to gain understanding of youths' experiences in a commercially available weight management program focused on lifestyle management and overall healthy development. Participants included four purposefully sampled male and female youth aged 10-18, enrolled in a 16-week program. Participants engaged in a semi-structured interview exploring their experiences within the program. Results indicate youth experienced positive development in the areas of physical, psychological and social skills. Participants highlighted specific mechanisms by which the program facilitated their development including the integrative educational approach, highly supportive parents and peers, and the work ethic required by the program. Youth also reported some negative experiences due to parents' over-involvement, instructors' control, and failing to meet their personal weight loss goals. Findings highlight the potential of programs' holistic approach to facilitate youths' broader development, yet suggest autonomy and learning to frame goals appropriately are critical to youths' positive experiences. Practical implications and future research directions are discussed.Acknowledgments: York University Faculty of Health; LaMarsh Centre for Child and Youth Research