This study examined maternal perceptions of obesity in their children and the likelihood of their participation in a weight control program. The study sample consisted of 33 low-income mothers of 5-11 year-old Hispanic overweight (n=2, BMI > 85th and < 95th) and obese children (n=31, BMI > 95th) recruited from elementary schools. Mothers completed a questionnaire assessing their perception of their child's weight and health-related risks, as well as their willingness to participate in a family-based weight control program. Twenty-seven percent of mothers rated their child's overweight to be very much of a health problem, 36% thought it was somewhat a problem, and an additional 36% thought it was not a problem at all. Of those who did not perceive their child's weight to be a problem, 21% did not think their child was overweight. While mothers did recognize their child's current overweight status and likely overweight status in the future (61%), a significant difference (p< .05) was found in mothers' current (55%) and future perceptions (75%) of potential health problems related to childhood obesity. A majority of mothers (76%) thought a program would be successful in reducing their child's weight. Greater likely participation was reported if the program was held at their home (73%) versus other locations. The failure to recognize current health risks potentially associated with childhood obesity may impede mothers from participating in weight control programs now which could prevent later health problems. These findings also suggest that programming for this population be conducted in the home.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Obesity, Family/Consumer Perspective
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.