Strategies for Recruitment and Retention of Families from Low-Income, Ethnic Minority Backgrounds in a Longitudinal Study of Caregiver Feeding and Child Weight.

BACKGROUND

Children from low-SES and ethnic minority backgrounds are at heightened risk for overweight, yet are underrepresented in the pediatric obesity literature.

METHODS

The current paper describes strategies employed to minimize barriers to recruitment and retention of African-American families receiving WIC services in a longitudinal study examining caregiver feeding and child weight.

RESULTS

Seventy-six families enrolled in the study over 3.5 years, and 50% of the families completed the study.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Despite effortful planning, unanticipated barriers likely contributed to lengthy recruitment and a modest retention rate. Future research should incorporate to modify and develop effective strategies for increasing engagement of low-SES and ethnic minority families in research.