Volume 13, Issue 3 pp. 201-211

Dietary and Physical Activity Patterns: Examining Fathers’ Perspectives

Julia A. Snethen PhD, RN

Julia A. Snethen PhD, RN

College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI

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Marion E. Broome PhD, RN, FAAN

Marion E. Broome PhD, RN, FAAN

Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN

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Sheryl Kelber MS

Sheryl Kelber MS

College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI

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Sandra Leicht MS, APNP, FNP

Sandra Leicht MS, APNP, FNP

University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Student Health and Counseling Center, Kenosha, WI

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Jackie Joachim MS, APNP, FNP

Jackie Joachim MS, APNP, FNP

Take Care Health Systems, Milwaukee

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Maribeth Goretzke MS, RNC

Maribeth Goretzke MS, RNC

College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI

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First published: 08 July 2008
Citations: 15
Author contact: [email protected], with a copy to the Editor: [email protected]

Julia 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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