BACKGROUND: Participants' perceptions may be associated with the high attrition rates reported by weight management programs. OBJECTIVE: To explore participants' perceptions of a weight management program. METHODS: Semistructured interviews were performed (spring 2010) with past participants of the Michigan Pediatric Outpatient Weight Evaluation and Reduction program. Transcripts were reviewed and themes identified. RESULTS: Parents (38) and adolescents (25) were interviewed separately; similar themes emerged. Theme 1: Support/encouragement-Participants emphasized the importance of a supportive environment with a positive, compassionate approach from providers. Theme 2: Exercise-Fun, achievable activities were a valued means of making exercise enjoyable and building self-efficacy. Theme 3: Nutrition-Hands on demonstrations and tangible suggestions were preferred over activities such as self-monitoring. Theme 4: Behavioral factors-Participants valued the opportunity to hear their peers' experiences. However, individual/family sessions addressing their personal concerns were also viewed as important. CONCLUSION: Beyond program content, participants valued a supportive environment emphasizing health over habitus.
BACKGROUND:Participants' perceptions may be associated with the high attrition rates reported by weight management programs. OBJECTIVE: To explore participants' perceptions of a weight management program. METHODS: Semistructured interviews were performed (spring 2010) with past participants of the Michigan Pediatric Outpatient Weight Evaluation and Reduction program. Transcripts were reviewed and themes identified. RESULTS: Parents (38) and adolescents (25) were interviewed separately; similar themes emerged. Theme 1: Support/encouragement-Participants emphasized the importance of a supportive environment with a positive, compassionate approach from providers. Theme 2: Exercise-Fun, achievable activities were a valued means of making exercise enjoyable and building self-efficacy. Theme 3: Nutrition-Hands on demonstrations and tangible suggestions were preferred over activities such as self-monitoring. Theme 4: Behavioral factors-Participants valued the opportunity to hear their peers' experiences. However, individual/family sessions addressing their personal concerns were also viewed as important. CONCLUSION: Beyond program content, participants valued a supportive environment emphasizing health over habitus.
Authors: Betty M Kennedy; Genevieve Davison; Lauren A Fowler; Erika Rodriguez-Guzman; Myra L Collins; Alison Baker; Stephen Cook; Jeanne Lindros; Denise E Wilfley; Ava J Zebrick; Amanda E Staiano Journal: Ochsner J Date: 2021
Authors: Elizabeth Prout Parks; Reneé H Moore; Ziyi Li; Chanelle T Bishop-Gilyard; Andrew R Garrett; Douglas L Hill; Yasmeen P Bruton; David B Sarwer Journal: JMIR Res Protoc Date: 2018-03-19