On Sunday, a new season of NBC's The Biggest Loser will premier despite some harsh criticism. For the first time, Season 14 of the popular weight loss reality drama will include kids. In a release to the press, the show says that following "three brave children" is their attempt to tackle childhood obesity. But critics say it's unfair exploitation. What do you think?
Petitions and Boycotts
One of the most outspoken critics of the show's decision is blogger Dr. Yoni Freedhoff MD, CCFP, a family physician, Assistant Professor at the University of Ottawa, and founder of the Bariatric Medical Institute in Ottawa, Canada. In his blog Weighty Matters he points out that most contestants on the popular show do notmaintain long term weight loss. Adults, he says, "have the maturity and insight to know what they're getting themselves into." But, he says that it is different for children.
"I would imagine that the psychological devastation of weight regain in any of these children will be far more damaging to them, and far more likely to be ridiculed by their peers and even complete strangers, than regain in any adult participant."
He goes on to say that he will not only be boycotting the show, but he is also choosing to boycott the show's sponsors, including BodyMedia Fit, an armband system that will be used for the first time on The Biggest Loser. He also notes that he signed apetition posted at Change.org that encourages the show's producers to rethink their decision.
Who'll Be Tuning In?
So will you watch? I have to be honest and say that I've never been a fan of the show so the controversy won't affect my viewing preference. The show's in-your-face motivational style is uncomfortable for me to watch. And, if I saw children getting yelled at for their lack of accomplishment, I'd be frustrated as a mother, as a health coach and as a weight loss writer. But, it remains to be seen how the kids will be coached. Let me know what you think. Leave a comment below or chime in on my Facebook page.
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