Evaluation of an Evidence-Based Weight Loss Trial for Urban African American Adolescents and Caregivers

Abstract

Rates of obesity are among the highest for African American adolescents in the US. However, African American adolescents benefit the least from evidence-based weight loss interventions, often experiencing poor treatment retention and low motivation. Participant evaluations provide key information for future development of family-based weight loss interventions able to address these barriers. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of African American adolescent and caregivers participating in the FIT Families trial for program satisfaction and content palatability. Content analysis was used to analyze semi-structured exit interviews from 136 African American adolescents [median age 14 years, 69% female] and caregiver pairs [primarily mothers] participating in a family-based 6-month behavioral weight loss intervention that was delivered either in the home or in an office setting. Participants reported most program practices [location, parent involvement, interpersonal relationship with weight loss counselors] and intervention content [cognitive behavioral skills training, motivational interviewing, contingency management] were helpful. Many adolescents [49%] and their caregivers [47%] reported that the program was acceptable overall, however noted that areas for refinement did exist. Participants reported that managing the logistics of weekly sessions was hard. Families expressed a desire for more engaging skills-based learning and the inclusion of exercise sessions and additional tailoring to needs and interests. Individualization, active learning, and support around parenting continues to be beneficial when designing interventions.