Predictors of behaviors related to obesity using the theory of planned behavior in middle school students

Background: Obesity is one of the most widespread health threats facing children and adolescents. Of children and teenagers aged 6–19, approximately 16% (almost 9 million) are overweight. It is a serious health issue that has been considered by many health professionals to be an epidemic that has placed a burden on our society. The four well-recognized behaviors that offset the development of childhood obesity include daily physical activity that is moderately intense, limiting sedentary behaviors, increasing water consumption in relation to the amount of sweetened beverages consumed, and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption. Purpose: This study examined the extent to which constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior predicted these four behaviors in middle school children. In addition, the development of a valid and reliable instrument which adequately reified the constructs of the TPB in relation to the aforementioned behaviors was also conducted. Methods: A cross-sectional design was utilized to obtain a convenience sample of approximately 700 middle school students. A 129-item valid and reliable instrument was administered in conjunction with the health and physical education teachers. In addition, height, weight and date of birth were recorded to calculate body mass index (BMI) for age. Confirmatory factor analysis was done to establish construct validity for each of the subscales used in the study. In establishing the predictors for each of the behaviors, stepwise multiple regression was used. Conclusions: Principal findings will be presented.