Preventing Childhood Obesity Through Parental Involvement: A Retrospective Study

Background/Purpose: Obesity and lack of physical activity (PA) among children, adolescents and adults are national concerns because of their epidemic prevalence. Parental involvement at an early age may be a key component to long-term PA behavior. This study examined the correlation between parental PA upbringing and current PA patterns, adult weight status, and current parenting habits.

Method: A convenience sample of 558 adults enrolled in corporate wellness programs in various facilities located in 20 counties in Utah completed a questionnaire. Part I of the questionnaire collected general demographics (age, gender, educational level, ethnicity, and occupation). Part II included a retrospective analysis of individuals' PA upbringing (14-questions using a Likert-type scale of 0-5). The questions were modified from existing surveys (Ayotte, 2007; Sallis, 1986). Part II included an assessment of current PA patterns (IPAQ-short version). Finally, Part IV included questions pertaining to PA parenting habits (4-questions using a Likert-type scale of 0-5) (Davison et al. 2003). The questionnaire was developed from multiple constructs of social cognitive theory, including reciprocal determinism, observational learning, reinforcement, environment, and behavioral capability. Body mass index (BMI) was obtained through the programs annual biometric screenings.

Analysis/Results: Composite scores were calculated for the parental PA upbringing and current parenting habits questions. Correlational analyses were conducted to assess relationships among the following factors: a) physical activity upbringing and current PA levels, b) PA upbringing and current adult weight status, and c) PA upbringing and current parenting habits for those participants who had children. Analyses showed that a strong PA upbringing was characterized by positive role models, rewards, communication, and encouragement. These characteristics promoted participation in vigorous physical activities as adults (r[559] = .093, p < .001). No significant correlation was found between PA upbringing and participation in moderate walking (r[558] = .053, p = .213) or sitting activities (r[558] = -.045, p = .291). A significant correlation revealed that participants who had a strong PA upbringing had lower adult body mass index levels (r[558] = -.210, p < .001). Of those completing the questionnaire, 337 were currently parents. Parents who were raised with a strong PA upbringing tended to emphasize PA when raising their children (r[337] = .335, p < .001).

Conclusions: Results from this study show that a strong PA upbringing is important in promoting weight maintenance, long-term vigorous PA patterns, and intergenerational parenting habits.