Formative Evaluation For Promoting Adoption Of The Dga, 2005 Among African American Parents And Children In The Lower Mississippi Delta: Focus Group Results

Formative research was conducted to increase adherence to the healthful food and physical activity patterns set forth in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005 (DGA, 2005) and thereby reducing weight gain and risk factors for obesity‐related chronic diseases in African American parents and their children living in Lower Mississippi Delta communities. Focus group results guided the planning of an obesity prevention intervention utilizing the obesity prevention program “We Can!” ‐ “Ways to Enhance Children's Activity and Nutrition.” Eight parent and six children focus group sessions were conducted in two Louisiana parishes. Questions were designed by the research team to 1) identify cultural values, biases, and norms that influence eating and physical activity behavior, 2) review “We Can!” Parent Handbook, and 3) identify intervention materials and delivery preferences. Focus groups discussions were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to identify recurring trends and patterns among focus groups. The study showed considerable variability in perception of factors that influence eating and physical activity behavior and educational approaches. Major themes that emerged included challenges of meeting the DGA, 2005 and the CDC physical activity guidelines, cultural influences on food habits and body size, barriers to participation in a program to promote healthy food choices and regular physical activity. Focus group discussion results were used to culturally tailor the intervention to promote adoption of the DGA, 2005. Grant Funding Source: USDA/ARS project #58‐6251‐8‐041