A Feasibility Study of Group Caregiver Training for the Prevention of Obesity (GCT-O) in African American Preschoolers

Obesity prevention is a priority for African American (AA) children. However, effective programs are sparse. We therefore conducted a feasibility study of an 8-week group caregiver training program for obesity prevention (GCT-O) targeting parental self-efficacy in family-based lifestyle change. Twenty primary caregivers of overweight and obese (BMI z score M = 2.46, SD = .93), AA preschoolers (M = 4.10 y, SD = 1.48, 70% female) participated in an open-trial of GCT-O within a community setting serving primarily low-income, AA families. Caregivers completed assessments of parenting and child behavior at baseline and postintervention, and feasibility/acceptability questionnaires at postintervention. Child height and weight were measured at both time points and at 3-month follow-up. Retention through postintervention was 75%. Average attendance was M = 5.12, SD = 2.12 of 8 sessions. Caregivers reported enjoying the program (100%), and found it helpful (87%) and feasible (79%). Postintervention, caregivers reported less authoritarian (p = .02) and permissive (p = .03) parenting, improved feeding practices (p = .03), and a reduction in youth’s lifestyle-related problem behaviors (p = .01). Caregiver report of children’s daily caloric intake decreased from baseline to postintervention (p = .04). Parental self-efficacy did not improve postintervention (p = .23). Child BMI z score was unchanged postintervention (p = .70), but decreased significantly by 3-month follow-up (p = .02). GCT-O was feasible and acceptable to program completers. Preliminary results suggest that GCT-O may improve caregiver and child behavior and prevent excess weight gain among AA preschoolers. An adequately powered and controlled efficacy trial is warranted.