Lived experiences of a family-based lifestyle intervention for children with overweight and obesity: On sustainability, self-regulation, and program optimization

Background: Family-based lifestyle interventions (FBLIs) are an important method for treating childhood weight problems. Despite being recognized as an effective intervention method, the optimal structure of these interventions for children’s overweight and obesity has yet to be determined. Our aim was to better understand participants’ (a) capacity to self-regulate and achieve long-term outcomes, (b) perceptions regarding the optimal structure of FBLIs, and (c) insights into psychological concepts that may explain success of these programs. Methods: : To understand participant experiences, we conducted focus group as well as one-to-one interviews with over 100 parents and children three months following their involvement in a 10-week, multi-component, FBLI involving resources, education, and experiential activities relating to healthy nutrition, physical activity, and behavior modification. Results: : Thematic analysis identified challenges that can impair lasting behavior change (e.g., physical activity participation) following involvement in a FBLI. On optimizing these programs, participants emphasized fun, interactive content, interpersonal support, appropriate educational content, and behavior change techniques. Conclusions: : Concepts rooted in motivational theory could help address calls for greater theoretical and mechanistic insight in FBLIs. Findings may support research advancement and assist health professionals to more consistently realize the potential of these interventions.