Parenting an Overweight or Obese Teen: Issues and Advice from Parents

ObjectiveThis qualitative study addresses: (1) what challenges parents of overweight adolescents face and (2) what advice parents of overweight adolescents have for other parents.DesignOne-on-one interviews were conducted with parents of overweight or previously overweight adolescents.SettingMedical clinic at the University of Minnesota.ParticipantsTwenty-seven parents of adolescents (12-19 years) who were either currently or previously overweight recruited from the community.Main Outcome MeasuresQualitative interviews related to parenting overweight adolescents.AnalysisContent analysis was used to identify themes regarding parental experiences.ResultsIssues most frequently mentioned were (1) uncertainty regarding effective communication with adolescent about weight-related topics; (2) inability to control adolescents' decisions related to healthful eating and activity behaviors; (3) concern for adolescents' well-being; and (4) parental feeling of responsibility/guilt. Parental advice most often provided included: (1) setting up a healthful home environment; (2) parental role modeling of healthful behaviors; and (3) providing support/encouragement for positive efforts.Conclusions and ImplicationsTopics for potential intervention development include communication and motivation of adolescents regarding weight-related topics, appropriate autonomy, and addressing negative emotions concerning the adolescent's weight status. Targeting these topics could potentially improve acceptability and outcomes for treatments.