Socialization and Childhood Obesity
Socialization is one of the most important aspects of human beings' lives. Essentially, socialization, which is as a result of interaction modifies the self. For this case, socialization agencies, which comprise of the family, mass media, school, and peers have an impact on the self. The increasing rate of childhood obesity across the worlds has resulted in a controversy that focuses on who is to be blame. The documentary, Way Beyond Weight, clearly shows that the socialization agencies are to blame for childhood obesity.
The Impact in Brazil
With a focus on Brazil, Way Beyond Weight, informs the viewer that approximately one-third of the children are obese. Childhood obesity has been attributed as the cause of children suffering from diseases that were previously associated with adults – heart and breathing problems, type 2 diabetes, and depression. The mass media, the food industry, and parenting style are the major contributors to the increasing rate of childhood obesity.
Prevention and Intervention
Prevention of childhood obesity should entirely focus on the socialization agencies and the relevant society institutions. In this case, parents, schools, and social institutions have a role to play in addressing the problem. Parents and schools play a crucial role in the socialization process of children. In essence, the self is modified by the two socialization agents; hence, they should create awareness among the children about healthy lifestyles and health foods. For instance, they should underscore the importance of physical exercise and eating of less manufactured foods. Social institutions such as the government should also intervene through restricting the food industry and the mass media and especially on the advertisement of manufactured foods.
The Role of Socialization
The prevention of childhood obesity largely depends on socialization. Ideally, if all the socialization agents play their roles appropriately, children will adopt the required values, norms, and beliefs, which are crucial in transforming the self. For this case, socializing children will work since it is a way of conditioning them on the food to consume and healthy lifestyle practices.
Work Cited
“Way Beyond Weight.” YouTube, uploaded by Maria Farinha Filmes, 5 Feb. 2013, https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=12"v=Q8N65getIYI
