Parental Communication in the Prevention and Treatment of Child and Adolescent Obesity: A Position Statement of the European Childhood Obesity Group.

Parental communication plays a critical role in weight-related health of children and adolescents and requires a balanced, thoughtful and supportive approach. The European Childhood Obesity Group (ECOG) convened a panel of experts to discuss the topic of parental communication in the prevention and treatment of child and adolescent obesity, as summarised in this statement. Parental concern about weight is evident, but the lack of parental knowledge about obesity, the impact of weight bias and stigma on their children and adolescents' health behaviours, and the influences of culture, media, and advertising all make communication challenging and problematic for many families. Parents need support and skill building in order to provide a communication environment that is healthy and accepting. Healthcare professionals can model healthy communication styles by focusing on health, building family strengths and supports, asking youth about what words they prefer using to discuss their weight, and acknowledging the multifactorial causes of obesity that reside in the socioecological environment. While parental communication offers a powerful platform for promoting healthy behaviours in youth, it must be handled with care to avoid the harms of stigmatisation and oversimplification of obesity as a reflection of individual lifestyle choices. With appropriate tools, knowledge, skills, and support, parents can be better equipped to engage in supportive dialogue that empowers their children and promotes their health and wellbeing.