The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions of obesity and management behaviors of obese adolescents and their families in Korea.

Nine adolescents with moderate-degree obesity and of four their mothers of them were investigated using semi-structured interviews.

The perceptions of obesity was classified into four domains and obesity management behaviors was classified into three domains. The domains regarding the perceptions of obesity include definitions of obesity(a danger signal of health status, deviation status, symbols of growth), causes of obesity(out of balance), opinions about their obesity(contempt, negative preconception, superiority) and changes on thought and attitudes owing to obesity(shrinkage, repulsion, sustaining losses, decreased activity, decreased self-confidence, defensive behaviors). The domains regarding obesity management behaviors include attitude about the management of obesity(not having priority, optimistic view, ardent wish), management behaviors for correcting obesity(encouraging physical activity, control of diet, gathering information, trial of diet control), attitudes about performing the management behaviors for correcting obesity(inconsistency, non-autonomy, conflict).

This study helps to enhance the understanding of the perception of obesity and management behaviors of obese adolescents and their families. Futhermore, based on this understanding, effective and appropriate heath management programs can be planned and conducted.