The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a cognitive-behavioral group counseling program on body image, interpersonal relations, self-efficacy, and dysfunctional attitudes of obese boy students in a middle school. The program was developed on the basis of Cash\'s cognitive-behavioral remedy program, Greenberger and Padesky\'s group counseling program, and Hyojeong Hwang\'s meditation program and Yeongsun Joe\'s social competence enhancement program. The 22 obese students were randomly assigned to two groups: 11 obese boys into experimental group and the other 11 obese boys into control group. The experimental group participated in 90 minutes 9-session program for 6 weeks. The control group received no treatment at all during this period. The program was led by the present investigator. Pretest and post-test on body image, self-efficacy, dysfunctional attitudes, and interpersonal relations were carried out to examine effects of the program. The result of the study was as follows: Firstly, the cognitive-behavioral group counseling program was proved to be effective in that the obese boy students came to have positive self image by changing negative emotion. This could be done by correcting negative thought system and errors of core belief. However, this program did not bring about the point of physical complacency during a short period without any hint of improvement physically. Secondly, obese boys are less likely to have success experiences regarding weight management. The more they fail in controlling weight, the more their self-efficacy decreases. Yet this program could reduce dysfunctional attitudes and improve self-efficacy through positive feedback of their merits and positive prediction. Thirdly, Obese boys are reluctant to show before others because of their poor appearances. However, this program could improve the competency of interpersonal relations.
Key Words : Cognitive Behavioral Group Counseling Program, Body Image, Self-Efficacy, Dysfunctional Attitudes, Interpersonal Relations, Obese, Boy Students, Middle School