Scholarly Research Articles - Essay Example

This article is within one’s chosen area of research on managing obesity in children, particularly as it discussed means of prevention as the first line of defense. There were other recommended treatments for childhood obesity which were consistent with the policy statements issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The strengths of the article lie in the clarity of structure and presentation of information, as well as the magnitude of scholarly and academic authoritative references that supported and validated the authors’ contentions.

There were a total of 83 references with 1997 as the earliest research date and 2003 as the most current. The only weakness of the research was its failure to present an actual study comprising of a sample of participants to test theories, particularly the neuroendocrine control of weight, which, as indicated by the authors were still being investigated at the time of their report being published. Since most information were sourced from secondary sources, there was no new data or findings instigated from their current research.

Evidence based management of childhood obesity: evidence based paediatrics By Laurel Edmunds, Elizabeth Waters, Elizabeth J. Elliot Edmunds, Waters and Elliot (2001) presented a research through citing a real case scenario of an obese child manifesting depression and finding out how to manage and address the dilemma through research literatures as evidenced based support. The theoretical approach of the authors identified the crucial role of secondary sources of information to support issues associated with obesity, particularly on areas of prevalence, psychological problems, current and future health problems, risk of obesity in adulthood, and family based weight reduction programs, among others (Edmunds, et.

al, 1 – 3). The article is significant for one’s personal area of research focusing on the management of childhood obesity in terms of the information provided that supports frequently asked questions about obesity with specifically identified type of evidence (ibid, 5). The article’s strengths are found through the manner and clarity of structure, presentation and support from 25 authoritative and scholarly sources on the topic. By providing an actual case scenario, readers are given a clear understanding of reality as manifested through the points of views of both the child and the parents.

Likewise, through the presentation of evidence, professionals, practitioners and clinicians are made aware of viable interventions that require the collaborative efforts of the family and the school. The only weakness of the article is its failure to identify research limitations and applicability of findings. Further, also school-based programs were presented as a promising approach to prevent obesity, it was clearly noted that “schools are not suitable locations for treatment due to stigmatization of children receiving treatment” (ibid, 5).

Further studies must validate and determine the net effect of school based programs for the child’s proposed treatment for this chronic illness. The Impact of Physical Activity and Obesity on Academic Achievement Among Elementary Students By Jimmy Byrd The article written by Byrd and reviewed, accepted and