Readiness to change (RTC) is important in counseling families regarding behaviour modification, although assessment of RTC in families and youth with obesity remains under investigated. Objective: To assess RTC at commencement of a pediatric weight management program, in parent and youth, and their confidence in maintaining those changes over the next 6 months.
Method: Parents and youth (8 - 16 years) enrolled in a research study to assess the Determinants of Change in Childhood Obesity (DECCO) identified their RTC at baseline using a 10-point visual analog scale. The study visit included assessment of demographics, family history, lifestyle, anthropometry measurements, and body composition by DXA.
Results: Of the 268 children (123 males) enrolled in the study, (BMI Z-score 2.26 ± 0.39; body fat 39.9 ± 5.08 % in boys, 42.1± 4.43 % in girls), 244 completed the RTC questions. Parent scores for current RTC were higher than youth ((mean ± SD); 8.3 ± 1.51 vs. 7.5 ± 1.98, p<0.0001), although the range was broad for both (3-10 vs. 1-10). Confidence of maintaining change for 6 months was also higher in parents (7.9 ± 1.56 vs. 7.5 ± 2.23, p<0.0001).
Summary: At the onset of presentation to a pediatric weight management program, RTC in parents and youth with obesity varies greatly. Parents’ RTC and confidence that they can maintain these changes exceeds that of their children. Different strategies for weight management may need to be implemented for those at different RTC and confidence levels.