Italian children perceptions and intentions about health and healthy eating: A focus group study

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a school-based media education curriculum on the promotion of fruit and vegetables consumption to prevent childhood obesity. The target population for the study was 10 years old Italian children (n=60) and their parents. The study utilized a mixed-method approach, with a quasi experimental design (with one intervention group and one control group). During pre-test and post-test and delayed post-test (after three months), psychosocial determinants (i.e. self efficacy, motivation, parental support ) and fruit and vegetable intake were measured. Upon completion of the intervention, focus groups were conducted with children in the intervention group. During the focus group, children were asked to express their health and media beliefs and knowledge, and nutritional behavior intentions, as well as their opinions/satisfaction with the intervention. The purpose of this presentation is to present the results from the focus groups. 21 children (7 female and 14 male) participated in 3 focus groups. The focus groups were recorded and transcribed. The transcripts are currently being coded and analyzed following standard qualitative analyses protocol. Data interpretation will be completed by the end of May 2012.