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ARS Home » Plains Area » Houston, Texas » Children's Nutrition Research Center » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #392699
Research Project: Preventing the Development of Childhood Obesity

Location: Children's Nutrition Research Center

Title: The perspectives of Black mothers on factors influencing dietary choices in their families and communities

Author
item CALLENDER, CHISHINGA - Children'S Nutrition Research Center (CNRC)
item Thompson, Deborah - Debbe

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/1/2021
Publication Date: 4/7/2022
Citation: Callender, C., Thompson, D.J. 2022. The perspectives of Black mothers on factors influencing dietary choices in their families and communities [abstract]. Society of Behavior Medicine (SBM) Annual Meeting. April 6-9, 2022; Baltimore, MD. Oral Presentation.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Obesity disparities exist in Black girls, and dietary behaviors may increase their obesity risk. Obesity prevention programs to help parents create an obesity preventive home environment are needed. The purpose of this study was to collect formative research from parents of 8-10 year old African American girls about perceptions, expectations, and content for a mHealth child obesity prevention program. Mothers (n=30) were recruited for a mixed-methods study (online surveys, interviews). Descriptive statistics were computed for survey responses. During the interviews, participants confirmed responses to survey questions, including the importance of healthy eating, factors influencing dietary choices, and views of healthy foods in the Black community. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed, and summaries of key points were generated. Mothers were Black/African American (100%), 31–50 years old (86.6%), married (50%), and all had at least one 8–10-year old daughter. All mothers believed it was very important for children to eat healthy and for parents to encourage healthy eating. Time (93.3%), convenience (86.7%), costs (63.3%), and activities outside of the home (60%) were identified as factors influencing dietary choices for families. Views varied regarding cultural influences on family's food choices. Most mothers (76.7%) believed that the Black community has different views of healthy foods than other communities. Interviews identified the historical influence of access to healthy foods in Black communities. Examining parents' perspectives about dietary choices can provide insight on how to develop relevant and culturally acceptable child obesity prevention programs for Black families.