Primary school children as young as five believe they are too fat to wear swimsuits, according to the results of a new study.

Dr Deirdre Cowman of All Hallows College, Dublin, carried out research into the effects a parent's weight obsession can have on children, the Herald reports.

The study found a fear of being fat, body image concerns, dieting and eating disorders are increasingly commonplace among young children.

Dr Cowman explained how parents have a major role in influencing their child's thoughts on nutrition and healthy eating.

"When children and young people hear so much talk about diet and weight loss, that can be taken up negatively. They can internalise this and the need to lose weight is greater," Dr Cowman stated.

Parents were warned by the specialist that although body dissatisfaction does not always lead to an eating disorder, it can put youngsters at an increased risk of depression.

Written by Donal Walsh

Comments