Participants’ Perceptions of “C.H.A.M.P. Families”: A Parent-Focused Intervention Targeting Paediatric Overweight and Obesity

Kristen C. Reilly, Daniel Briatico, Jennifer D. Irwin, Patricia Tucker, Erin S. Pearson and Shauna M. Burke
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Kristen C. Reilly: Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
Daniel Briatico: Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
Jennifer D. Irwin: Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
Patricia Tucker: Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
Erin S. Pearson: Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada
Shauna M. Burke: Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada

IJERPH, 2019, vol. 16, issue 12, 1-24

Abstract: Background : Recently, our team implemented a 13-week group-based intervention for parents of children with obesity (“C.H.A.M.P. Families”). The primary objective of this study was to explore, qualitatively, parents’ perspectives of their experiences in and influence of C.H.A.M.P. Families, as well as their recommendations for future paediatric obesity treatment interventions. Methods : Twelve parents (seven mothers, five fathers/step-fathers) representing seven children (four girls, three boys) with obesity participated in one of two focus groups following the intervention. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim and data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results : Findings showed that parents perceived their participation in C.H.A.M.P. Families to be a positive experience. Participants highlighted several positive health-related outcomes for children, families, and parents. Parents also underscored the importance and positive impact of the group environment, specific educational content, and additional program components such as free child-minding. Recommendations for future interventions were also provided, including greater child involvement and more practical strategies. Finally, parents identified several barriers including socioenvironmental issues, time constraints, and parenting challenges. Conclusions : Researchers developing family-based childhood obesity interventions should consider the balance of parent and child involvement, as well as emphasize group dynamics strategies and positive family communication.

Keywords: childhood obesity; overweight; paediatric; parents; focus group; program evaluation; intervention; community; qualitative (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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