P/M/344. Dissertation. Childhood obesity and junk food

The dissertation addresses the issues of the obesity crisis in the Western World focusing on childhood obesity and the implications of the fast-food and snacking culture promoted through mass media. The review of literature covers the areas of child psychology, the influence of family and peer groups on children's eating habits, children's buying behaviour, etc. A combination of primary (interviews in focus groups) and secondary (theoretical explanation) methods of research illustrates current practices used by companies in food promotion. Recommendations are given about regulations concerning junk food advertising through the media.