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Updated: May 17, 2026

A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents
Published on: July 10, 2017
A focus group study of Mexican immigrant men's perceptions of weight and lifestyle
Joseph Martinez1, Jamie Powell, April Agne
1School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35205, USA.
Objective:
Despite interest in family-centered obesity and diabetes prevention programs for Latinos, few studies have assessed men's perspectives on obesity-related behaviors. The objective of this study was to explore Mexican immigrant men's perspectives regarding weight, diet, and physical activity as they relate to the individual and the family.
Design And Sample:
This was a focus group study with a convenience sample of Mexican immigrant men (n = 16).
Measures:
A moderator's guide was used to elicit perceptions of personal and family behaviors influencing weight and lifestyle.
Results:
Mean age of participants was 41 years (SD ± 12.7), and 100% were born in Mexico. Mean time in Alabama was 8 years. Perceived benefits of a healthy weight included improved mobility and decreased morbidities. Perceived barriers to a healthy lifestyle included demanding work schedules and an environment not conducive to walking. Participants described immigration as having a negative impact on family unity and established meal structures.
Conclusion:
Previous studies among Latinas cite husband resistance as a barrier to sustained diet and lifestyle change; however, men in this study voiced openness to programs for obesity and diabetes prevention. Future family centered programs should engage men and promote communication within the family on common goals related to health and illness prevention.
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