Exploring parents’ perceptions and experiences of childhood obesity and management in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: an interpretive qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Childhood obesity is a public health concern in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where cultural and social factors shape parental perceptions. This study explores how Riyadh-based parents view childhood obesity. Methods: A hybrid approach to thematic analysis was employed, combining deductive and inductive coding to allow for emergent themes directly from the data. Semistructured interviews were conducted with twelve parents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, whose children were identified as overweight or obese. The data were analysed to identify key themes related to parental perceptions and childhood obesity management. Results: Four themes emerged from the data: (1) perceptions towards childhood obesity; (2) perceived barriers to weight management; (3) perceived benefits to weight management; and (4) perceived motivators to addressing obesity. Conclusion: Parents in Riyadh often view childhood obesity as a sign of health due to deep-rooted cultural norms. However, as they witness health and social challenges in their children, such as bullying or physical difficulties, their perceptions begin to shift. This study highlights the role of cultural beliefs, lifestyle constraints, and limited institutional support as barriers to managing childhood obesity. Addressing these factors through awareness initiatives and community support could empower parents to more effectively promote healthier behaviours for their children, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes.