Caregivers Perceptions about Discussing Children’s Weight: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Childhood obesity poses serious health problems, many of which have life-long
repercussions. A major gap in current knowledge relates to caregivers perceptions about the role
of the dental team in the provision of weight-related counseling. Our aim was to address this
question by obtaining in-depth information regarding caregiver’s perceptions about the role of
the pediatric dental team in healthy weight-related counseling.
Methods: This qualitative investigation used semi-structured, face-to-face, 45-minute interviews
of English-speaking caregivers of children ages 4-6 who were receiving routine dental
care in a dental school-based clinic. Interviews were transcribed and coded using standardized
methodologies for qualitative research. The analytical approach was thematic and iterative,
using ATLAS/ti data analysis software. Interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation
was obtained.
Results: Theoretical saturation was obtained at 15 interviews, with two central themes emerging.
Caregivers were 1) highly receptive to and expected the dental team to provide cariesrelated
nutrition counseling and 2) generally receptive to healthy-weight counseling, while emphasizing
that rapport/compassion would be key for effective communication.
Conclusions: Previous investigations have shown that pediatric dentists have concerns that
they may offend caregivers by broaching the topic of weight-related counseling. In this pilot
study, we found caregivers expressed respect for the dental team’s knowledge of weight and
valued a compassionate approach in the context of an established rapport. The pediatric dental
team has an opportunity to address childhood obesity through routine screening/assessment and
the provision of nutrition-related counseling.