The literature regarding etiology and consequences of childhood and juvenile obesity is briefly surveyed with special reference to recent trends in behavioral research. Major emphasis is focused on issues of differential diagnosis, and treatment. The objective is to offer a logical and coherent plan for approaching and managing obesity in childhood and adolescence. The importance of an awareness and understanding of both the patient's and therapist's attitudes toward the problem of obesity is addressed. Furthermore, the necessity for a cooperative approach, utilizing nonmedical professionals, in developing a coordinated treatment plan for obese young people is discussed.