An Exploration of How Fathers Attempt to Prevent Childhood Obesity in Their Families.

OBJECTIVE

To understand how fathers of preschool-aged children define overweight and obesity in children, investigate how fathers influence or attempt to influence their child's nutrition and physical activity behavior, and explore the father's perceived role in making decisions regarding his child's weight status.

METHODS

Explorative study using an online survey, with 9 open-ended questions. Content analysis using constant comparative method was applied to data. A total of 117 US fathers (35.6 ± 5.55 years, 85% white; 82% had a 4-year degree or more) of preschoolers were included in the final analysis.

RESULTS

Four themes emerged from the responses: (1) causes of childhood obesity, (2) prevention and/or treatment strategies, (3) recognition of child excess weight, and (4) barriers to changing behavior.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Although qualitative studies with a more representative sample are needed, practitioners could engage both fathers and mothers in interventions aimed at improving a child's health.