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. 2021 Mar;53(3):246-253.
doi: 10.1016/j.jneb.2020.11.006. Epub 2020 Dec 22.

Papás Saludables, Niños Saludables: Perspectives From Hispanic Parents and Children in a Culturally Adapted Father-Focused Obesity Program

Oriana Perez  1 , Alicia Beltran  1 , Tasia Isbell  2 , Edgar Galdamez-Calderon  1 , Tom Baranowski  1 , Philip J Morgan  3 , Teresia M O'Connor  4
Affiliations

Papás Saludables, Niños Saludables: Perspectives From Hispanic Parents and Children in a Culturally Adapted Father-Focused Obesity Program

Oriana Perez et al. J Nutr Educ Behav. 2021 Mar.

Abstract

Objective: Qualitatively assess culturally adapted lifestyle intervention, Papás Saludables, Niños Saludables (PSNS; Healthy Dads, Healthy Kids), for Hispanic fathers and children.

Methods: Semistructured interviews of parents and children after participation in 10-week PSNS program for Hispanic fathers and children. Qualitative data double-coded inductively and deductively until consensus reached.

Results: Total of 26 fathers, 26 mothers, and 45 children interviewed. Parents and children had positive feedback about program content on culturally relevant nutrition and physical activity and reported improved father-child bonding. Mothers noted increased involvement among fathers in child's well-being. Participants suggested lengthening the program.

Conclusions and implications: Papás Saludables, Niños Saludables is an innovative approach with promise in engaging Hispanic fathers and children in a lifestyle program that emphasizes the role of fathers in children's lifestyle behaviors. Familism, respeto (respect), and promoting father-child relationships were important to engage fathers. Results from this study will inform future trials of PSNS and help identify ways to increase engagement of Hispanic men in other programs.

Keywords: Hispanic; children; culturally adapted; fathers; obesity prevention.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

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