Children′s physical activity and screen time: qualitative comparison of views of parents of infants and preschool children

Autor: Hesketh Kylie D, Hinkley Trina, Campbell Karen J
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2012
Předmět:
Zdroj: International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, Vol 9, Iss 1, p 152 (2012)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 1479-5868
DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-9-152
Popis: Abstract Background While parents are central to the development of behaviours in their young children, little is known about how parents view their role in shaping physical activity and screen time behaviours. Methods Using an unstructured focus group design, parental views and practices around children′s physical activity and screen time (television and computer use) were explored with eight groups of new parents (n=61; child age Results Parents generally believed children are naturally active, which may preclude their engagement in strategies designed to increase physical activity. While parents across both age groups shared many overarching views concerning parenting for children′s physical activity and screen time behaviours, some strategies and barriers differed depending on the age of the child. While most new parents were optimistic about their ability to positively influence their child′s behaviours, many parents of preschool-aged children seemed more resigned to strategies that worked for them, even when aware such strategies may not be ideal. Conclusions Interventions aiming to increase children′s physical activity and decrease screen time may need to tailor strategies to the age group of the child and address parents′ misconceptions and barriers to optimum parenting in these domains.
Databáze: Directory of Open Access Journals