Keywords
children, parents, families, physical activity, nutrition, obesity, technology, tailored feedback, transtheoretical model, social cognitive theory, motivational interviewing
Abstract
The current study evaluated the initial feasibility, efficacy, and acceptability of a motivationally-tailored family-based intervention designed to promote the adoption of healthy lifestyle behaviors associated with physical activity and nutrition. Parents (N=132) of children 6 to 11 years old were randomly assigned to the intervention or control condition, and they completed a series of online questionnaires. Intervention participants (n=61) received a single motivationally-tailored feedback report via e-mail. Control participants (n=71) completed measures and immediately received information about a free online resource that provides information about healthy lifestyle behaviors (www.mypyramid.gov). Feasibility data indicate that an online feedback program has high dissemination potential (parents from 31 states participated). However, the current methodology is not sufficient in reaching families who are at greatest risk for developing chronic health conditions associated with obesity or low activity level. In general, the intervention was acceptable to parents. Outcome data revealed that the intervention and control groups did not differ significantly on most variables at one month follow-up. Exploratory analyses provided additional evidence for the importance of including parents and targeting parent-child interactions in the context of pediatric nutrition and physical activity interventions. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
Notes
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Graduation Date
2010
Advisor
Tantleff-Dunn, Stacey
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
College
College of Sciences
Department
Psychology
Degree Program
Psychology
Format
application/pdf
Identifier
CFE0003359
URL
http://purl.fcla.edu/fcla/etd/CFE0003359
Language
English
Release Date
July 2011
Length of Campus-only Access
None
Access Status
Doctoral Dissertation (Open Access)
STARS Citation
Hayes, Sharon, "Evaluating An Online Personalized Family-based Intervention To Promote Healthy Lifestyle Changes" (2010). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 4321.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/etd/4321