Abstract
ObjectivesChildren learn by observing and imitating others, meaning that their eating behaviors and physical activity may be influenced by their peers. This paper systematically reviews how preschoolers’ eating behaviors and physical activity relate to their peers’ behaviors, and discusses avenues for future research.MethodsSix databases were searched for quantitative, peer-reviewed studies published up to July 2015 reporting on the correlates, predictors or effectiveness of peers on eating behaviors and physical activity in preschoolers. Risk of bias was independently assessed by two evaluators using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies.ResultsThirteen articles were included: six measured physical activity, and seven assessed eating behaviors. Four of the six physical activity studies reported that children were more active when peers were present, while large peer group size was negatively associated with physical activity in two cross-sectional studies. All nutrition interventions reported that children’s eating behaviors may be influenced by their peers.ConclusionsAlthough supported by weak evidence, peers appear to influence children’s eating behaviors and physical activity. However, this influence may be moderated by the number of peers, gender, age and the perceived status of the role models. Future obesity prevention interventions should consider involving peers as agents for positive eating behaviors and physical activity in preschoolers.
Highlights
12 % of children under the age of 5 living in developed countries had excess weight or obesity in 2010 [1], with prevalence exceeding 20 % in countries such as Canada [2], the United States [3], and Australia [4]
Protocol and registration This study followed the procedures for systematic review reporting as described by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations [36], used the same methods as the ones we described in details elsewhere [37], and was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO)
This systematic review provides weak evidence that peers may act as role models for children’s eating behaviors and physical activity, which aligns with the theory of social facilitation and observational learning
Summary
12 % of children under the age of 5 living in developed countries had excess weight or obesity in 2010 [1], with prevalence exceeding 20 % in countries such as Canada [2], the United States [3], and Australia [4]. Childhood obesity generally reflects an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure [5, 6], which is modifiable through dietary behaviors and physical activity [6]. These behaviors are learned during childhood and are sustained through adolescence and adulthood [7, 8]. Effects of social facilitation on eating behavior of youth are not as clear [14, 15]. The literature on physical activity supports the concept of social facilitation among youth, reporting they tend to be more physically active when in the presence of peers and friends [16,17,18]. Observational learning theorists suggest that children’s behaviors are influenced
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