Using PRECEDE to develop a weight management program for disadvantaged young adults.
OBJECTIVE
To conduct a needs assessment using the PRECEDE model for the development of a weight management program for low-income young adults.


METHODS
Four phases were implemented using qualitative (focus groups and interviews) and quantitative (survey) methodologies, with steering committee guidance.


METHODS
Northeastern residential vocational center.


METHODS
Convenience sample of low-income young adults, 18-24 years old (total n = 203), who were attending a job training vocational center.


METHODS
General themes of life satisfaction determinants and issues related to weight, self-reported weight and related behavior, existing environmental supports, and desired changes of behavioral and environmental influences of weight.


METHODS
Content analysis of qualitative data; descriptive analysis and Student t test.


RESULTS
Self-image and discrimination were themes for weight issues. More than half of participants were overweight or obese (57%) and had low levels of physical activity (58%). Self-reported fruit and vegetable intake was inadequate (<2.5 cups/d). Identified environmental factors most needing improvement were accessibility for walking and biking and availability of healthful food. Participants reported exercising, getting adequate sleep, eating healthful snacks, and effectively managing stress as behavior they were willing to change.


CONCLUSIONS
The PRECEDE model was useful to identify concerns, priorities, and modifiable factors among a young adult community that can increase the relevancy of a weight management program.
Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL. Electronic address: jenniferwalsh@ufl.edu.
Jennifer R
JR
Walsh
Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Maine, Orono, ME.
Adrienne A
AA
White
Health and Nutritional Sciences, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD.
Kendra K
KK
Kattelmann
D000328:Adult; D001828:Body Image; D015992:Body Mass Index; D001835:Body Weight; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D015438:Health Behavior; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment; D011203:Poverty; D011788:Quality of Life; D061217:Weight Reduction Programs / Q000379:methods*; D055815:Young Adult
community-based approach; life satisfaction; low income; weight management; young adults