Naturalistic observation of the snack-selecting behavior of obese and nonobese children.

No previous study has examined the snack-selecting behavior of children although information from such a study may be useful in preventing and treating obesity or in determining its etiology. To provide data on this behavior, male (n=190) and female (n=166) children were unobtrusively observed purchasing snacks in either of two movie theaters. The amount of soft drinks and snack foods that were selected was recorded, and the corresponding caloric values were determined. Ratings were also made for obesity and sex. No differences for obesity or sex emerged on the measure of amount of calories selected. The implications of these results for the treatment of obesity are discussed.