Audience-Driven Curriculum Design to Enhance Youth and Parent Media Skills and Food Behaviors: Year 2 of 5

Abstract

This project aims to equip youth 9-12 and parents with nutrition knowledge and media literacy skills to manage media influence and engage in healthier food behaviors. Year 1 needs assessment focus groups identified concepts for curriculum development. Year 2 curriculum development employed an audience-driven iterative design modeled on the Strengthening Families Program. Pilot testing will occur in five counties, followed by field testing and delayed posttests. Media use can contribute to childhood obesity risk. The project addresses parents' desire to deconstruct marketing messages and enhance mindful eating, along with youth interest in learning about marketing techniques and nutrition facts.