Oral

People’s food and physical activity choices and behaviors are influenced by a complex, interrelated set of determinants and mediators, including different cognitions as well as environmental factors such as food availability and accessibility. Successful behavior change interventions are dependent on the ability to affect these intrapersonal, interpersonal, and/or environmental mediating factors. The presenters in this session have used focus groups, semi-structured interviews, photo elicitation, and participant observation to examine the sociocultural, situational, and other factors influencing individuals’ personal dietary decisions and caregivers’ feeding practices. Study participants represent multiple, distinct populations and communities -- middle-aged and older African American men, migrant and seasonal Latino farm workers, WIC participants, and families of varying socioeconomic status in the Mazatlan metropolitan area of Mexico. Presenters will describe research methods and key findings as well as opportunities identified for targeting interventions to specific groups in order to achieve healthier eating habits and feeding practices.

Session Objectives: 1. Identify community, situational, structural, and cultural factors that influence feeding practices and dietary behaviors among diverse groups; and 2. Identify opportunities and challenges for targeted interventions to improve eating behaviors and decrease obesity in distinct communities.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)