Overweight and Obese College Students’ Perceived Barriers and Motivators for a Healthy Lifestyle

Abstract

This qualitative study explored overweight and obese college students' experiences of obesity. Overweight and obese university students (BMI 25 or higher) from a southwestern regional university in the United States were recruited for in-depth qualitative interviews. Interviews were conducted face-to-face in a private room during the academic year 2013-14. A team of trained qualitative researchers used conversational interviews to discuss the students' experiences for 45-60 minutes. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data analysis used qualitative emergent themes and categorization. Researchers analyzed the data at team meetings for triangulation and validation. Nineteen overweight or obese university students (female=11 and male=8) participated in the study. Sixty-three percent (12 out of 19) were obese and the remainder were overweight. Seventy-three percent (14 out of 19) did not meet the physical activity guidelines for Americans. Time and motivation were barriers for physical activity. Seventy-three percent (14 out of 19) reported eating unhealthy foods. Lack of time and convenience were barriers to eating healthier. They showed a lack of knowledge on how to make healthy food choices. Eleven out of nineteen (57%) participants were self-conscious about their body, and half were having trouble finding clothes that fit. These results support the previous literature on psychological issues, lack of daily physical activity,