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Identifying effective behavioural models and behaviour change strategies underpinning preschool- and school-based

C A Nixon1, H J Moore, W Douthwaite

  • 1Obesity Related Behaviours Group, School of Medicine and Health, Wolfson Research Institute, Durham University Queen's Campus, Stockton-on-Tees, UK. c.a.nixon@durham.ac.uk

Obesity Reviews : an Official Journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity
|February 8, 2012
PubMed

Insights

This review found that Social Cognitive Theory (SCT)/Social Learning Theory (SLT) is effective for childhood obesity prevention interventions. Combining parental involvement, school-based learning, and targeting physical activity and diet yields the best results.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Behavioral Science
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern requiring effective prevention strategies.
  • Preschool and school-based interventions are critical for addressing obesity in early childhood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review effective behavioral models and strategies for obesity prevention in 4-6-year-olds.
  • To identify key components of successful preschool and school-based obesity interventions.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive systematic review of epidemiological studies with controlled assignments and ≥6-month follow-up.
  • Searches conducted across major databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library) from April 1995 to April 2010.
  • Outcomes assessed included weight gain, body composition, physical activity, and dietary behavior changes.

Main Results:

  • Social Cognitive Theory (SCT)/Social Learning Theory (SLT) was the most frequently used behavioral model.
  • Interventions utilizing SCT/SLT demonstrated significant positive changes in outcome measures.
  • Most effective interventions combined high parental involvement, interactive school-based learning, targeted physical and dietary changes, and long-term follow-up.

Conclusions:

  • SCT/SLT-based interventions are effective for childhood obesity prevention.
  • Multicomponent interventions targeting behavior change in both children and parents are recommended.
  • Future interventions should focus on enhancing perceived competence for dietary and physical activity changes in children and parents.

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