Engaging Intergenerational Hispanics/Latinos to Examine Factors Influencing Childhood Obesity Using the...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Hispanic/Latino children experience disproportionately high rates of obesity in the U.S.
• A socio-ecological approach is crucial for understanding the multifaceted causes of childhood obesity.
• Intergenerational perspectives are vital for a comprehensive understanding of influences on Hispanic/Latino childhood obesity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore factors influencing Hispanic/Latino childhood obesity through an intergenerational lens.
• To understand the perceptions of children, parents/caregivers, and grandparents regarding childhood obesity.
• To identify key themes contributing to childhood obesity within Hispanic/Latino families.

Main Methods:

• Eight focus groups were conducted with Hispanic/Latino adults and youth.
• A semi-structured moderator's guide facilitated discussions.
• Thematic analysis of transcribed audio-recordings, categorized using the PRECEDE-PROCEED model.

Main Results:

• Six major themes emerged: eating habits, cultural weight perceptions, acculturation, obesity perceptions, economic issues, and generational differences.
• Adults cited lack of time for healthy meal preparation due to work hours and fast-food availability.
• Youth identified sedentary behaviors, permissive parenting, and lack of parental role modeling as key contributors.

Conclusions:

• Discordant perceptions exist between adults and adolescents regarding unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle factors.
• Adults highlighted a need for nutritional knowledge and cooking skills.
• Adolescents emphasized permissive parenting and lack of discipline.
• Findings underscore the importance of involving all family generations in developing targeted obesity prevention programs.