title: Acceptability of a school-based intervention for the prevention of adolescent obesity.
abstract: This article describes the development and pilot testing of a computer-based, multiple-behavior obesity prevention program for adolescents. Using the Transtheoretical Model as a framework, this intervention offers individualized feedback based on readiness to engage in physical activity, to consume fruits and vegetables, and to limit television viewing. Focus groups and interviews with students, teachers, school administrators, and experts guided the development. Forty-five students participated in a baseline intervention session and completed a 16-item acceptability measure. Ratings were positive, with item means ranging from 3.60-4.75 on a 5-point scale. Student responses to open-ended questions aided in the enhancement of the intervention, for which an effectiveness trial begins in September 2006. This formative work demonstrated the acceptability of this school-based intervention approach, which can be promoted and prescribed by school nurses. Further, if found effective, it can be disseminated as an efficient, low-cost, population-based approach designed to address the epidemic of obesity.
authors.affiliation: Behavior Change Projects, Pro-Change Behavior Systems, West Kingston, RI, USA.
authors.forename: Leanne M
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Mauriello
authors.forename: Mary Margaret H
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Driskell
authors.forename: Karen J
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Sherman
authors.forename: Sara S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Johnson
authors.forename: Janice M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Prochaska
authors.forename: James O
authors.initials: JO
authors.lastname: Prochaska
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D015444:Exercise; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009511:New England; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009765:Obesity / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D012572:School Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D012573:School Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires