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Factors that influence low‐income families' use of recommended nutrition and parenting practices to prevent unhealthy weight gain in children: An exploratory study
Author(s) -
WillitsSmith Amelia,
Dickin Katherine L
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.25.1_supplement.781.8
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , psychology , covert , exploratory research , developmental psychology , environmental health , qualitative research , medicine , social science , linguistics , philosophy , sociology , anthropology
Parental feeding practices can help prevent unhealthy weight gain in children but little is known about the feasibility and acceptability of recommended practices in low‐income, diverse populations. To address this gap, this longitudinal study elicited the perspective of low‐income parents on influences and strategies related to recommended nutrition and parenting practices for children aged 3–11 yrs. Parents (n=17) completed 3 in‐depth interviews over 6 months, focusing on in‐home trials of nutrition and supporting parenting practices with target children. Qualitative thematic analysis revealed that spousal responses, family food preferences, and physical and mental health influenced success. Preferred strategies included shopping or cooking with children, buying less energy‐dense food, and covert food control. Feasibility or acceptability of practices varied by marital role and parent employment status. Although it was possible for most families to make some improvements, relationship power dynamics and desire to please the family presented overwhelming barriers for some parents. These were the main struggles mentioned, despite other challenges experienced during the study such as domestic abuse and economic hardship. A thorough understanding of facilitators, motivators, and how successful strategies differ by family characteristics should inform future programming. Funded by USDA.