Premium
Perceptions of factors and messages related to childhood obesity among Mexican‐origin parents
Author(s) -
VeraBecerra Luz Elvia,
Aguilera Albert,
Kaiser Lucia,
Manzo Rosa,
Torre Adela
Publication year - 2013
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.27.1_supplement.1063.13
Subject(s) - childhood obesity , focus group , clarity , population , obesity , promotion (chess) , intervention (counseling) , psychology , qualitative research , perception , health promotion , gerontology , medicine , developmental psychology , environmental health , public health , overweight , nursing , sociology , political science , social science , biochemistry , chemistry , neuroscience , politics , anthropology , law
The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine perceptions, barriers, and opportunities related to the prevention of childhood obesity in a Mexican‐origin population. Following a protocol described by Krueger and Casey, Spanish‐speaking graduate students conducted five focus groups in 2010–11 among Mexican‐origin parents (n=34) of children, ages two to eight years old, in Fresno County, CA. Transcripts were prepared, based on digital recording of the sessions, and analyzed using constant comparative analysis. Two researchers independently analyzed the data for emerging themes. When asked about factors contributing to the increase in childhood obesity in the US compared to rural Mexico, parents identified changes in physical activity, less time for food preparation, poor food quality in the US, fast food, parenting practices, and school food choices. When asked about the clarity and relevance of key obesity prevention messages, parents identified promotion of family meals and fruit and vegetables as being among the most important areas to emphasize in nutrition education programs targeting this population. Some found messages about small portion sizes confusing. Emerging themes from this research can be used to develop a culturally‐nuanced childhood obesity intervention for Mexican‐origin families. Funded by UC Davis Jastro Shields and Healthy Children, Healthy Family USDA‐NIFA grant (# 82705).