Dietary and Physical Activity Patterns: Examining Fathers’ Perspectives
Julia A. Snethen PhD, RN
College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
Search for more papers by this authorMarion E. Broome PhD, RN, FAAN
Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN
Search for more papers by this authorSheryl Kelber MS
College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
Search for more papers by this authorSandra Leicht MS, APNP, FNP
University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Student Health and Counseling Center, Kenosha, WI
Search for more papers by this authorJackie Joachim MS, APNP, FNP
Take Care Health Systems, Milwaukee
Search for more papers by this authorMaribeth Goretzke MS, RNC
College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
Search for more papers by this authorJulia A. Snethen PhD, RN
College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
Search for more papers by this authorMarion E. Broome PhD, RN, FAAN
Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN
Search for more papers by this authorSheryl Kelber MS
College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
Search for more papers by this authorSandra Leicht MS, APNP, FNP
University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Student Health and Counseling Center, Kenosha, WI
Search for more papers by this authorJackie Joachim MS, APNP, FNP
Take Care Health Systems, Milwaukee
Search for more papers by this authorMaribeth Goretzke MS, RNC
College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
Search for more papers by this authorJulia A. Snethen, PhD, RN, is Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee College of Nursing, Milwaukee, WI; Marion E. Broome, PhD, RN, FAAN, is Distinguished Professor and Dean, Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN; Sheryl Kelber, MS, is a Biostatistician, College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee; Sandra Leicht, MS, APNP, FNP, is a Nurse Practitioner, University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Student Health and Counseling Center, Kenosha, WI; Jackie Joachim, MS, APNP, FNP, is Clinic Coordinator, Take Care Health Systems, Milwaukee; and Maribeth Goretzke, MS, RNC, is from the College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI.
Abstract
PURPOSE. Obesity adversely affects children, yet limited information is available on the familial environmental influence of fathers. The purpose of this study was to examine fathers’ influences on their children's eating and activity patterns.
DESIGN AND METHODS. Participants for this mixed methods study was a convenience sample of 51 multi-ethnic fathers of children 8–12 years of age, who completed surveys addressing dietary and physical activity behaviors.
RESULTS. An association was found between fathers’ and children's weight status. Half the children snacked without parental guidance.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Nurses need to assist children and their families to develop effective weight management strategies.
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