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Vahk A, Monsivais P, Johnson CM, Sharkey JR. An Evaluation of ¡Haz Espacio Para Papi!, a Culturally Tailored Nutrition and Physical Activity Pilot Program for Mexican-Heritage Fathers. Nutrients 2024; 16:1153. [PMID: 38674844 PMCID: PMC11053541 DOI: 10.3390/nu16081153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Fathers are potential leaders of healthy behavior changes in their families. Culturally tailored programs are needed to support behavior changes within families, including Latino families; however, there have been few father-focused nutrition programs for Latino families. This study evaluated the immediate effects of ¡Haz Espacio Para Papi! (Make Room for Daddy!; HEPP), a six-week, father-focused, family-centered program focused on nutrition and physical activity near the Texas-Mexico border. A modified stepped-wedge study design included a treatment group for the HEPP pilot and a wait-listed control group. Pre/post-tests included instant skin carotenoid scores, the self-reported dietary intake of fruits and vegetables (FV), and healthy dietary behavior scores (HDBSs). A 2 × 2 mixed analysis of variance evaluated changes in outcomes across time and between groups for 42 fathers with pre/post-test measures. There were no statistically significant changes in fathers' VM scores and FV intake across time or between groups. Fathers' HDBSs increased across time (p ≤ 0.01, 95% CI [0.23, 1.38]). Age, educational attainment, and the number of children living in the household did not have a significant effect on the program outcomes (p > 0.05). The HEPP program may guide the design of future father-focused nutrition interventions aimed at dietary behavior changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Vahk
- Nutrition and Exercise Physiology Program, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, 412 E. Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane, WA 99202, USA;
| | - Pablo Monsivais
- Nutrition and Exercise Physiology Program, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, 412 E. Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane, WA 99202, USA;
| | - Cassandra M. Johnson
- Nutrition and Foods Program, School of Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA;
| | - Joseph R. Sharkey
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
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Choque GAH, Rodriguez MR, Soltani D, Baltaci A, Nagao-Sato S, de Davila SA, Monardez J, Peralta Reyes AO, Reicks M. Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Father Participation in an Adolescent Obesity Prevention Program With Multiple Delivery Methods. Health Promot Pract 2023:15248399231177300. [PMID: 37300243 PMCID: PMC10830123 DOI: 10.1177/15248399231177300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Padres Preparados, Jóvenes Saludables was a Latino family-based obesity prevention intervention implemented from 2017 to 2020 across eight programs in-person only, in a blended format (online/in-person), and online only. The intervention aimed to enhance father parenting skills to improve adolescent diet and activity behaviors. Mothers were encouraged to attend. Factors associated with participation were explored using a mixed-methods, qualitative (focus group/individual interviews by Zoom) and quantitative (process evaluation) design. Eleven focus group and 24 individual interviews were completed after participation with 24 fathers, 27 mothers, and 40 adolescents with responses not sorted by delivery method before analysis. Binomial logistic regression models examined associations between fathers' program completion and predictor variables of delivery characteristics, father demographic characteristics, and family attendance patterns. Parents were married (96% fathers, 76% mothers), had low income, a high school education or less (68% fathers, 81% mothers), and had lived in the United States a mean of 19 years. Parents were motivated to participate to improve health, and to be involved with and improve communication with their child. Common barriers to participation were work and life priorities and programmatic factors including scheduling conflicts and technological issues. Participation was greater for fathers attending sessions in-person compared with online only (OR = 11.6). Fathers were more likely to participate if they attended sessions with family members vs. not attending with family members (OR = 7.2). To maximize participation, findings suggest involving multiple parents/caregivers and adolescents, addressing contextual and programmatic barriers, and promoting benefits of better health and relations with family members.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Silvia Alvarez de Davila
- University of Minnesota Extension, St. Paul, MN, USA
- Robert J. Jones Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Laviolette C, Johnson CM, Butler JL, Biediger-Friedman L, Sharkey JR. Nutrition Effects of a Family-Centered Health Promotion Program for Mexican-Heritage Children in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15071600. [PMID: 37049438 PMCID: PMC10097021 DOI: 10.3390/nu15071600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic and social factors, like poverty and food insecurity, negatively influence fruit and vegetable (FV) intake and body mass index (BMI) among Latino/a children. Behavioral programs are needed to support children’s nutrition. This study examined program effects on FV intake and BMI outcomes for Mexican-heritage children (9–11 years). The program used a modified stepped-wedge design in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas (2019 and 2020). Promotoras led experiential nutrition education sessions and collected height, weight, and instant skin carotenoid scores (biomarker for FV intake) at pre-test (baseline), post-test (6 weeks), and maintenance (3–4 months after post-test). Mean changes and group differences in skin carotenoid scores, BMI z-scores and percentiles were obtained from analyses of variance. Linear mixed-effects models were used to determine overall program effects. Mexican-heritage children were enrolled (n = 57 and 52.6% female). An overall decrease in skin carotenoid scores was observed at post-test (−15.1; 95% CI: −24.95, −5.33). While scores varied widely (range: 17–498), an increase of 14.8 ± 23.8 points occurred in one intervention group. Compared to the control period, greater reductions in BMI outcomes occurred during the program. These findings provide evidence for the use of strengths-based approaches in behavioral nutrition programs.
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Johnson CM, Allicock MA, Sharkey JR, Umstattd Meyer MR, Gómez L, Prochnow T, Laviolette C, Beltrán E, Garza LM. Promotoras de Salud in a Father-Focused Nutrition and Physical Activity Program for Border Communities: Approaches and Lessons Learned from Collaboration. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11660. [PMID: 36141933 PMCID: PMC9517298 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Promotoras de salud (promotoras) have been a valuable part of community research for Latino families, such as in the recruitment or delivery of health promotion programs. However, there has been limited discussion of how to integrate a promotora model into a father-focused program to support nutrition and physical activity within Latino families. This manuscript's purpose is to describe how to engage and collaborate with promotoras in a father-focused, family-centered program for Latino families living in colonias near the U.S.-Mexico border. As part of a longstanding community-academic partnership, the authors outline approaches and lessons learned from collaboration with promotoras during the design (including formative work and training), implementation, and evaluation of a behavioral program-¡Haz Espacio para Papi! (HEPP, Make Room for Daddy!). Promotoras' contributions supported the entire program, from design through evaluation. The team of all-female promotoras created a balance between the needs and preferences of the community and the goals and requirements of the research. While there is considerable time and human capital required for collaboration, the mutual benefits can make this work meaningful to all involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra M. Johnson
- Nutrition and Foods Program, School of Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| | - Marlyn A. Allicock
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health-Dallas Regional Campus, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Dallas, TX 75207, USA
| | - Joseph R. Sharkey
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - M. Renée Umstattd Meyer
- Department of Public Health, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76706, USA
| | - Luis Gómez
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Tyler Prochnow
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Chelsey Laviolette
- Nutrition and Foods Program, School of Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| | - Elva Beltrán
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Luz M. Garza
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Prochnow T, Patterson M, Umstattd Meyer MR, Lightner J, Gomez L, Sharkey J. Conducting Physical Activity Research on Racially and Ethnically Diverse Adolescents Using Social Network Analysis: Case Studies for Practical Use. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11545. [PMID: 36141817 PMCID: PMC9517360 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent physical activity (PA) is significantly impacted by peer behaviors through peer influence, peer selection, and popularity. However, the scales for these social constructs may not fully capture the detailed social networks and mechanisms responsible for PA behavior changes. This level of detail and granularity can be quantified and analyzed through social network analysis (SNA). To demonstrate the variety, utility, and efficacy of SNA in adolescent PA research, this article aims to provide four case studies on the collection of social network and PA data on ethnically and racially diverse adolescents. Through case studies, this article provides tangible ways in which SNA can be used to evaluate social influences on PA behaviors. Case studies are presented on: (1) Youth Engagement in Sport-an egocentric analysis of middle school youth participation in an experiential sport program with 3- and 6-month follow-ups; (2) Summer care program networks-an egocentric and whole network longitudinal study of adolescents at summer care programs; (3) The Convoy method-a qualitative egocentric discussion activity with adolescents from colonias on the Texas-Mexico border; and (4) A father-focused, family-centered health program-an egocentric experimental analysis of children participating in a health program. Data collection procedures are listed and example surveys are provided. Descriptive analyses are included, as are recommendations on further analysis techniques for each type of network data. Using SNA, researchers can understand social contexts in a more specific manner, better positioning interventions to alter such influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Prochnow
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Meg Patterson
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | | | - Joseph Lightner
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Luis Gomez
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Joseph Sharkey
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Prochnow T, Umstattd Meyer MR, Patterson MS, Talbert T, Meyer A, Sharkey J. ¿Qué Está Haciendo Papá? Mexican-Heritage Fathers' Physical Activity Networks After a Father-Focused Health Program. FAMILY & COMMUNITY HEALTH 2022; 45:115-124. [PMID: 35125491 DOI: 10.1097/fch.0000000000000319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) is a public health priority due to holistic health benefits; however, many adults do not meet PA guidelines. Few studies have examined Mexican-heritage fathers' social networks, specifically with whom they are physically active. This study examines changes in Mexican-heritage fathers' PA networks after participation in a father-focused, family-centered health program. Families consisting of child (aged 9-11 years), mother, and father were recruited from colonias on the Texas-Mexico border for participation in a 6-week father-focused, family-centered program concentrated on healthy eating and active living. Fathers reported up to 5 people with whom they were active most in the previous month before and after the program as well as how often they were active with the person and what activities they did most often. Multilevel regression models examined changes in networks. Fathers (n = 42; mean age = 39.07 years, SD = 7.45) were significantly more likely to report more frequent PA with others after the program as compared with before. General active play and conditional support were mentioned most frequently. This study provides context to the social networks and PA behaviors of Mexican-heritage fathers and suggests that a father-focused, family-centered health program can increase the PA frequency with social network connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Prochnow
- Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (Drs Prochnow, Patterson, and Sharkey) and Baylor University, Waco, Texas (Drs Umstattd Meyer, Talbert, and Meyer)
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Prochnow T, Umstattd Meyer MR, Patterson MS, Meyer A, Talbert T, Sharkey J. Active Play Social Network Change for Mexican-Heritage Children Participating in a Father-Focused Health Program. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH EDUCATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2021.2020184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Johnson CM, Sharkey JR, Umstattd Meyer MR, Gómez L, Allicock MA, Prochnow T, Beltrán E, Martinez L. Designing for Multilevel Behavior Change: A Father-Focused Nutrition and Physical Activity Program for Mexican-Heritage Families in South Texas Border Communities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910117. [PMID: 34639420 PMCID: PMC8508574 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Fathers significantly influence family functioning, as coparents and partners, and must be part of family-based approaches to behavioral health interventions or programs. But little is known regarding how to support Latino fathers in health promotion within their family systems, specifically for Latino families living in border communities. Program development was embedded in a larger community-based grant and part of a longstanding academic-community collaboration. An interdisciplinary research team applied theories related to health behavior, family systems, behavior change, and community engagement to develop a father-focused and family-centered behavioral program for Mexican-heritage fathers and children living near the Texas-Mexico border to support changes in nutrition and physical activity at the individual and family levels. Promotoras de salud (trained community health workers) delivered the program through group sessions, check-in calls, and at-home activities. Group session activities were designed to engage family triads and dyads using experiential education related to nutrition and physical activity, like cooking lessons and active play, over a six-week period. Future research can use the program approach and curricula as a roadmap for designing context-specific and culturally-relevant programs for Latino families. Additional research is needed to explore how approaches like this can support families and their health goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra M. Johnson
- Nutrition and Foods Program, School of Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(512)-245-9196
| | - Joseph R. Sharkey
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.R.S.); (L.G.); (E.B.); (L.M.)
| | - M. Renée Umstattd Meyer
- Department of Public Health, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76706, USA;
| | - Luis Gómez
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.R.S.); (L.G.); (E.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Marlyn A. Allicock
- The University of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, Houston School of Public Health-Dallas Regional Campus, Dallas, TX 75207, USA;
| | - Tyler Prochnow
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, College of Education and Human Development, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Elva Beltrán
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.R.S.); (L.G.); (E.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Luz Martinez
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.R.S.); (L.G.); (E.B.); (L.M.)
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