Navigating an Obesigenic Environment

Abstract

The environment in which parents socialize children’s eating, physical activity, and screen-related behaviors has changed and has been widely faulted in the obesity epidemic. This phenomenological study examined the intentions, reflections, and strategies of a purposefully selected group of mothers, self-reported as successful in socializing their children’s obesity-related behaviors as determined by scoring highly on the Family Nutrition and Physical Activity screening tool. Mothers described the power of modeling positive obesity-related behaviors and creating a culture that promoted activity over sedentariness. By focusing on establishing positive behaviors at home, and framing choices and opportunities in support of child autonomy, mothers believed they were preparing children to resist threats from the obesigenic environment. The voices of these mothers present a strengths perspective and provide a narrative which complements research in representative and at-risk populations. Findings may inform obesity prevention and intervention programs as well as parenting education curricula.