Qualitative perspectives on a family group intervention program for improving physical wellness

ABSTRACTHealthy Balance is an obesity-prevention group intervention program that promotes physical wellness for family systems by motivating them to make healthy lifestyle changes to their eating and activity levels together as a unit. The researchers conducted 19 qualitative interviews with caregiver intervention participants and healthcare providers to explore perspectives on the program, health, and lifestyle change processes. Themes emerged around improving physical wellness for young families, health change processes, and experiences with the family-based group intervention. Caregivers reported that they believed interventions focusing on improving the health literacy and behavioral change for the whole family to be more beneficial. Family systems theoretical concepts were supported through participants’ perspectives that detailed how intervening with the whole family can not only lead to physical health behavior changes, but also enhance family connection and quality time.