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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2012 Jan-Feb;37(1):53-63.
doi: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsr057. Epub 2011 Aug 18.

Comparison of a family-based group intervention for youths with obesity to a brief individual family intervention: a practical clinical trial of positively fit

Ric G Steele  1 , Brandon S Aylward, Chad D Jensen, Christopher C Cushing, Ann M Davis, James A Bovaird
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

Comparison of a family-based group intervention for youths with obesity to a brief individual family intervention: a practical clinical trial of positively fit

Ric G Steele et al. J Pediatr Psychol. 2012 Jan-Feb.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the effectiveness of a family-based behavioral group intervention (Positively Fit; PF) for pediatric obesity relative to a brief family intervention (BFI) in a sample of treatment-seeking children and adolescents.

Methods: Families (n = 93) were randomized to treatment condition. Assessments were conducted at pre- and posttreatment and at 12-month follow-up. Outcome indices included standardized body mass index (BMI) and quality of life (QOL).

Results: Results indicated a significant reduction in zBMI at posttreatment and follow-up across both conditions. At follow-up, BFI and PF participants evidenced average reductions of .12 and .19 zBMI units, respectively. Children demonstrated better outcomes than adolescents across both conditions. Results indicated clinically significant improvements in parent-reported QOL at postintervention and in self-reported QOL at follow-up for PF participants.

Conclusions: Results suggest the effectiveness of family-based interventions for pediatric obesity in clinical settings among younger children. Neither intervention was effective in terms of reducing zBMI among adolescents.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Overview of study flow.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
zBMI over time by treatment condition.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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