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Motivational Interviewing in an Obesity Prevention Program for Children
Teminijesu John Ige1, Patrice DeLeon1, Laura Nabors1
11 University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
Health Promotion Practice
|May 21, 2016
Summary
Motivational interviewing in after-school programs improved children's eating and exercise habits. Coaches also gained knowledge of healthy food options, showing promise for childhood obesity prevention.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern.
- After-school programs offer a viable setting for obesity prevention interventions.
- Motivational interviewing is a potential technique for behavior change.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the implementation of motivational interviewing in an after-school childhood obesity prevention program.
- To assess child and coach perceptions of the intervention's effectiveness.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving 19 children (Grades 3-5), 9 coaches, and 4 parents.
- Intervention included weekly lessons and individual coaching sessions over two academic sessions.
- Data collected via goal sheets, surveys, focus groups, and video analysis.
Main Results:
- Children reported improved eating and exercise habits post-intervention.
- Coaches reported increased knowledge of healthy food options.
- Children responded positively to motivational interviewing techniques.
Conclusions:
- Motivational interviewing is a promising approach for childhood obesity prevention in after-school settings.
- Involving teachers and parents could enhance intervention dissemination and reinforce healthy lifestyle changes.
- Further research is needed to explore broader implementation strategies.
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