Family-based behavioural management of childhood obesity: service evaluation of a group programme run in a community setting in the United Kingdom

Abstract

A service evaluation of a pilot of a family-based behavioural management group programme for childhood obesity was conducted in a community setting in the United Kingdom. A total of 17 families with children aged 7.5-14 years completed the programme, which was delivered in 15 sessions over 6 months. Behavioural and psychological measures and age- and sex-adjusted z-body mass index (BMI) were assessed before and after programme. z-BMI was maintained. There was a significant increase in the amount of high-fibre foods and a decrease in the amount of low-fibre foods consumed and in sedentary behaviours. There were significant decreases in depression, abnormal dieting behaviour and bulimia and food preoccupation, and an increase in self-worth related to physical appearance. These positive behavioural and psychological changes suggest that this is a promising programme.