Factors influencing weight control practices amongst the adolescent girls in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa.

Abstract

BackgroundThe incidence of overweight is increasing amongst adolescents in many countries around the world. Healthy and unhealthy weight control practices are common amongst overweight and non-overweight adolescents.AimThe aim of this study was to explore factors influencing weight control practices amongst adolescent girls.SettingThe study was conducted at selected secondary schools of Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa.MethodsA qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was used. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used to select adolescents who are practicing weight control. In-depth interviews were conducted with 30 participants. Data were analysed according to Tesch’s open-coding method.ResultsThis study revealed that adolescent girls are influenced by a variety of factors to control their weights. These included individual factors, such as body image dissatisfaction; family factors, caused by parental criticism about adolescent weight; and environmental factors, which contain peer group endorsement of dieting.ConclusionAdolescents are exposed to many unhealthy weight control practices, as a way of controlling excess weight. So it is of importance for healthcare providers to make them aware of healthy practices.