This model for the management of childhood obesity uses a family-based approach. Change is delivered through the parents (instead of the obese child) emphasizing a healthy lifestyle and not weight reduction as in previously published, family-based management of childhood obesity. This intervention integrates behavioral, social learning, and family system approaches. The proposed approach includes changes in parental cognition, emphasizing "parenthood presence"; parents serve both as a source of authority and a role model for the obese child, providing a family environment that fosters healthy practices related to weight control issues and de-emphasizing personal responsibility for control of health behavior.