Leveraging text messaging and mobile technology to support pediatric obesity-related behavior change: a qualitative study using parent focus groups and interviews.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Text messaging (short message service, SMS) is a widely accessible and potentially cost-effective medium for encouraging behavior change. Few studies have examined text messaging interventions to influence child health behaviors or explored parental perceptions of mobile technologies to support behavior change among children.

Objective

Our aim was to examine parental acceptability and preferences for text messaging to support pediatric obesity-related behavior change.

Methods

We conducted focus groups and follow-up interviews with parents of overweight and obese children, aged 6-12 years, seen for "well-child" care in eastern Massachusetts. A professional moderator used a semistructured discussion guide and sample text messages to catalyze group discussions

SUBMITTER: Sharifi M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3869083 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature