Food, Health & Choices (FHC): How Perceptions of Maternal and Peer Energy Balance Behaviors Relate to Students’ Own Behaviors

Abstract

Many health behavior theories implement social determinants, yet exactly how social factors influence energy balance-related behaviors (EBRBs) remains unclear. This study examines how children’s perceptions of others’ EBRBs compare to their own. Fifth grade students (n=215; 10.8y; 49.8% male) in four urban public schools participated in the delayed control FHC childhood obesity prevention curriculum and wellness policy intervention during the 2013-14 school year. Students completed an audience response system questionnaire pre- and post-intervention which measured their EBRBs and those perceived of their peers and mothers. General linear models were constructed (SPSS v20) to examine how children’s post-behaviors were explained by mothers’ and peers’ pre-behaviors, controlling for children’s own pre-behaviors and gender. Students’ higher perceptions of mothers’ vegetable intake was related to increased vegetable frequency post intervention (F=4.586, P=0.034). Also, perceptions of lower sweetened beverage intake by mothers resulted in lower post intervention intake of sweetened beverage (F=5.980, P=0.016). Similarly, positive perceptions of mothers’ behaviors led to longer bouts of moderate-vigorous activity (F=6.122, P=0.014) and less recreational screen time (F=8.689, P=0.004). Peers positively influenced fast food intake only (F=4.141, P=0.044). Children’s perceptions of mothers’ behaviors seemed to strongly influence both positive and negative EBRBs; those who were influenced by their mothers’ behaviors experienced an amplified effect of the FHC intervention. Upper elementary school children, while likely experiencing increased effects of peer pressure, still seem to be heavily influenced by perceptions of mothers’ EBRBs. Highlighting maternal influences is warranted in future obesity prevention studies.