Mother's Perceptions on Familial Correlates of Overweight and Obesity Related Behaviors in Adolescents:

There is convincing evidence that family environment plays an important role in influencing the obesity related-behaviors in adolescents. Considering the necessity of understanding the familial correlates of obesity in adolescents, and the lack of related studies in Iran, this study aimed to explore mothers’ perceptions and experiences regarding these associated factors of overweight and obesity related behaviors in adolescents. A grounded theory approach was used for analyzing the participant's experiences, and their perceptions. To collect data, 6 semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted with 25 mothers who had at least one overweight or obese child. Based on open sampling, with the aim of maximal variation of the participants’ experiences, two demographically diverse areas from the north and south of Tehran were selected and then followed with theoretical sampling. All the focus group discussions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data collection and analysis were done simultaneously using the Strauss and Corbin analysis method. Five main familial correlates of overweight and obesity in adolescents emerged from data: 1) Parents with inadequate knowledge, 2) Parents’ modeling of unhealthy behaviors, 3) Dissimilarity of members, 4) Maternal employment and 5) Children’s studies being the top priority for parents. Findings demonstrate familial correlates of overweight and obesity in adolescents as perceived by mothers, correlates that must be addressed by effective interventions for tackling overweight and obesity in adolescents.