Concern about Child Weight among Parents of Children At-risk for Obesity

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the relationship between parental concern about child weight and weight-related child behaviors, parenting practices, and household characteristics. METHODS: Parent-child dyads (N=421) enrolled in a randomized, controlled obesity prevention trial were evaluated at baseline. RESULTS: Parental concern regarding child weight was associated with greater use of restrictive and monitoring feeding practices and lower total child energy intake. CONCLUSIONS: Parents expressing greater concern about child weight were more likely to report engaging in strategies to regulate their child's dietary intake, some of which may inadvertently have negative consequences. Intervention strategies that activate parental concern about child weight should include guidance and support for engaging in feeding practices that support healthful child eating patterns and growth.