Maternal, child and family factors in childhood obesity

Objective: Childhood obesity is an ever increasing problem in today’s modern world. This study aimed at trying to recognize the role of maternal, child and family factors in childhood obesity. Methods: There were 2 groups in the study, the study group comprising of 80 obese primary school boys and their mothers and the control group that comprised of 80 normal weight primary school boys and their mothers. The children and mothers were assessed using a semi-structured questionnaire for collecting socio-demographic and other relevant data. Maternal mental health was assessed using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and the Negative Life events scale. Parenting and family functioning was assessed using the Parenting Scale and the McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD), respectively. Results: Maternal depression and anxiety, laxness and verbosity in parenting styles, meal frequency, eating out, lack of play with increased television viewing was significantly more in the study group. Family functioning was affected significantly in the study group as well. Conclusions: Childhood obesity is intricately linked to maternal, child and family health, both physical and mental. It is therefore essential that family based interventions be sought in the long term management of childhood obesity.