Parent and child weight status predict weight-related behavior change. (July 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Leary, Janie M; Ice, Christa L; Neal, William A; Cottrell, Lesley
• Is Part Of: Journal of communication in healthcare. Volume 6:Number 2(2013)
• Page Start: 115
• Page End: 121
• Publication Date: 2013-07
• Subjects: Body weight changes -- Family health -- Health behavior -- Health promotion -- Obesity; Communication in medicine -- Periodicals; Communication -- Periodicals; Health promotion -- Periodicals; 610.696
• DOI: 10.1179/1753807612Y.0000000021
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1753-8068

Abstract

Abstract : With the continued childhood obesity epidemic, it is vital to understand how family members influence health-related behavior change. Objective: Assess associations between parent/child weight-related variables and health-related behavior change. Methods: School-based screening of child weight and parent-reported health survey. Results: Child behavior change was influenced by accuracy of parent perceived child weight. Parent behavior change was primarily influenced by concern about own weight. Parents accurately perceiving their children as overweight were more likely to make changes than parents with inaccurate perceptions. Conclusions: Health promotion programs should incorporate parent accuracy of child and concern for own weight.