Family systems associations with obesogenic behaviors among rural Latino and White families

Abstract

Although obesity rates in the United States seem to be stabilizing on the national level, obesity risk continues to grow, especially among rural, low-income Latino youth. Parents play an important role in shaping children's early food behaviors. While risky and effective obesogenic parenting behaviors are well documented, less research has explored variations and perceptions in food parenting among diverse populations. This study explores perceptions and behaviors across 21 Latina immigrant mothers with low incomes living in two rural communities. Family profile analysis was used to identify patterns of food parenting agency within mixed methods data. Mothers with high food parenting agency tended to report fewer obesogenic food parenting behaviors, take more behavior change action, report adaptive behaviors from childhood, and have better views of their current food environment. Mothers with lower food parenting agency had more obesogenic behaviors and described more contextual challenges. Hence, diversity in food parenting agency should be considered in future research and obesity prevention.

Putting Knowledge into Practice: Low-Income Women Talk about Food Choice Decisions

“…Examination of the interpersonal sphere of the SEM showed a strong influence among household members over dietary patterns. Similarly, parent relationships and number of children in the home were found to differently influence obesity risk related household practices among rural, low-income families [42]. Some mothers prioritized the diet of their children before their own, which can lead to undereating or altered consumption patterns.…”