DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/B9EW-D115
Defense Date
2015
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Counseling Psychology
First Advisor
Suzanne Mazzeo Ph.D.
Abstract
Childhood obesity is a serious health problem in the United States. Numerous weight management programs attempt to address this issue. However, attrition poses significant treatment efficacy challenges. Understanding attendance and attrition from childhood obesity programs is crucial for effective and appropriate resource utilization. NOURISH+ is a community-based treatment program for parents of overweight and obese children (age 5–11 years, BMI ≥ 85th percentile). The current study investigated attrition from NOURISH+ to enhance understanding of pediatric obesity treatment retention factors. NOURISH+ participants (n=70) completed a questionnaire assessing barriers to adherence and general program feedback. Data were analyzed using frequencies, descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and qualitative analyses. Practical barriers were commonly endorsed attendance impediments. This study highlights the significant barriers parents must overcome to partake meaningfully in a group parenting obesity intervention. Results could inform the delivery, acceptability, and feasibility of parent-focused interventions for overweight or obese children in urban environments.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
5-6-2015
Included in
Community Health Commons, Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Counseling Psychology Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons