Treatment of pediatric obesity using a parent-only approach: a case example

There is a great need for solution-oriented studies and descriptions of interventions for pediatric obesity in real-world settings. This report describes a group-based behavioral parent-only intervention to promote healthier lifestyle habits and reduce weight status in an obese 12-year-old female participant.

The behavioral parent-only intervention program described was part of a randomized controlled trial that evaluated the impact of 2 behavioral interventions that addressed dietary intake, physical activity, and weight status in overweight and obese youth living in rural settings. Both the child and parent were targeted for behavior change. The intervention included 12 group sessions over 4 months. Behavioral strategies, including self-monitoring, goal setting, performance feedback, reinforcement, stimulus control, and instruction in behavioral parenting strategies were flexibly applied to meet the needs of the family. Assessments were completed at baseline, month-4 posttreatment, and month-10 follow-up.

The parent attended 10 of 12 treatment sessions. At follow-up the child had lost 17 pounds and grew 1.7 in. in height. The child also experienced improved quality of dietary intake and a drop in the number of self-reported unhealthy weight control behaviors. The parent experienced no notable decrease or increase in BMI.

The report describes the successful application of a behavioral intervention to address pediatric obesity that uses a parent-only approach. It is hoped that this presentation will facilitate discussion and help encourage further presentations of how the flexible application of evidenced-based interventions can be applied in real-world settings.