Contemporary research on parenting: conceptual, methodological, and translational issues.
Researchers over the last decade have documented the association between general parenting style and numerous factors related to childhood obesity (e.g., children's eating behaviors, physical activity, and weight status). Many recent childhood obesity prevention programs are family focused and designed to modify parenting behaviors thought to contribute to childhood obesity risk. This article presents a brief consideration of conceptual, methodological, and translational issues that can inform future research on the role of parenting in childhood obesity. They include: (1) General versus domain specific parenting styles and practices; (2) the role of ethnicity and culture; (3) assessing bidirectional influences; (4) broadening assessments beyond the immediate family; (5) novel approaches to parenting measurement; and (6) designing effective interventions. Numerous directions for future research are offered.
Department of Human Development, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4852, USA. tompower@wsu.edu
Thomas G
TG
Power
Ester F C
EF
Sleddens
Jerica
J
Berge
Lauren
L
Connell
Bert
B
Govig
Erin
E
Hennessy
Leanne
L
Liggett
Kimberley
K
Mallan
Diane
D
Santa Maria
Angela
A
Odoms-Young
Sara M
SM
St George
D003469:Culture; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D010287:Parent-Child Relations; D016487:Parenting; D063766:Pediatric Obesity / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012106:Research; D012931:Social Environment