[Mothers' perceptions on familial correlates of overweight and obesity related behaviors in adolescents: a qualitative study]

There is convincing evidence that family environment plays an important role in influencing the obesity related-behaviors in adolescents. Considering the necessity of understanding the familial correlates of obesity in adolescents, and the lack of related studies in Iran, this study aimed to explore mothers' perceptions and experiences regarding these associated factors of overweight and obesity related behaviors in adolescents. A grounded theory approach was used for analyzing the participants' experiences, and their perceptions. To collect data, 6 semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted with 25 mothers who had at least one overweight or obese child. Based on open sampling, with the aim of maximal variation of the participants' experiences, two demographically diverse areas from the north and south of Tehran were selected and then followed with theoretical sampling. All the focus group discussions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data collection and analysis were done simultaneously using the Strauss and Corbin analysis method. Five main familial correlates of overweight and obesity in adolescents emerged from data: 1] Parents with inadequate knowledge, 2] Parents' modeling of unhealthy behaviors, 3] Dissimilarity of members, 4] Maternal employment and 5] Children's studies being the top priority for parents. Conclusion: Findings demonstrate familial correlates of overweight and obesity in adolescents as perceived by mothers, correlates that must be addressed by effective interventions for tackling overweight and obesity in adolescents

Personal barriers to life style modification in overweight/obese adolescents: a qualitative study

Existing data show a rising prevalence of overweight and obesity among Iranian adolescents. Considering the lack of related studies from Iran, the current study investigates personal barriers to life style Modification among overweight/obese adolescents. This is a qualitative study, conducted according to the grounded theory approach. Participants were 35 school children [19 girls and 16 boys], aged 15-17 years, who were either overweight or obese. To collect data, 5 semi-structured focus group discussions and 10 in-depth interviews were conducted. To obtain views across a range of socioeconomic backgrounds, two demographically diverse areas in Tehran were selected, and in each area, participants were recruited from schools. All interviews and focus group discussions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data collection and analysis were done simultaneously according to the Strauss and Corbin analysis method. Based on data analysis, positive perception of conditions, priority of studying, lack of willingness, negative experiences, low self-esteem, and perceived lack of control were the major personal barriers to adolescents' healthy lifestyles. Study results demonstrated the main personal barriers for a healthy life style as perceived by adolescents, barriers that any effective interventions require to address for tackling overweight and obesity in adolescents