The "New Paradigm" for weight management started emerging in l979 with the publication of two major reviews that questioned the effectiveness and social appropriateness of traditional treatment.^1,2 Since that time, numerous books and papers have challenged the basic assumptions underlying the current paradigm and the components of an alternative approach have been developed.^3,4,5,6

Though this new approach varies somewhat depending on the source, the philosophy and major foci are remarkably similar. The underlying assumptions include acceptance of the natural diversity in body shape and size, the ineffectiveness and dangers of dieting, and the critical importance of social, emotional and spiritual as well as physical factors to health and happiness (see New Paradigm Approach). The major foci of this new approach are summarized below.⁷ These foci support a holistic view of health that promotes "feeling good about oneself, eating well in a natural, relaxed way, and being comfortably active."⁸
 
 

The New Paradigm
"Health At Every Size"
Major Foci

1)    Self-Acceptance:

Affirmation and reinforcement of human beauty and worth irrespective of differences in physical size and shape.

2)   Pleasurable Physical Activity:

Support for increasing social, pleasure-based movement for enjoyment and enhanced quality of life

3)   Normalized Eating:

Support for discarding externally imposed rules and regimens for eating and attaining a more peaceful relationship with food by relearning to direct food intake in response to hunger, appetite and satiety cues.

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