ABSTRACT
Youth with Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED) have high rates of overweight/obesity. Factors influencing mental health provider intentions to deliver weight-related advice are unclear. This study used qualitative methodology and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) constructs to examine these factors. Community mental health providers serving youth with SED were recruited via convenience sampling and an online provider list. Participants completed an open-ended TPB-based questionnaire online. Content analysis identified thematic beliefs. Twenty-one providers completed the questionnaire. Providers identified behavioral beliefs (e.g., client defensiveness), normative beliefs (e.g., medical professionals), and control beliefs (e.g., limited resources) that impact decisions to provide weight-related advice. Knowledge of factors that may influence providers' delivery of weight-related advice may lead to more effective healthy lifestyle programming for youth with SED.
Subject(s)
Affective Symptoms/therapy , Attitude of Health Personnel , Community Mental Health Services , Obesity/psychology , Weight Loss , Adolescent , Adult , Affective Symptoms/complications , Female , Humans , Male , Obesity/complications , Obesity/therapy , Overweight/complications , Overweight/psychology , Overweight/therapy , Qualitative Research , Surveys and QuestionnairesABSTRACT
While youth with emotional and behavioral disorders experience increased rates of obesity, few obesity interventions exist that are tailored to their needs. Qualitative methods were employed to elucidate obesity management practices in this population. In all, 56 participants (i.e. 21 youths with emotional and behavioral disorders, 20 caregivers of youth with emotional and behavioral disorders, and 15 mental health providers) were recruited from community mental health centers. Participants completed a demographic form and semi-structured interview regarding obesity-related behaviors. Barriers (e.g. psychiatric symptoms) and facilitators (e.g. social support) to obesity management were identified. These results highlight preferred intervention components for this unique population.
