International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care
Volume 6, Issue 1, 2010, Pages 34-42

Applying socio-cultural lenses to childhood obesity prevention among African migrants to high-income western countries: The role of acculturation, parenting and family functioning (Article)

Renzaho A.* , Mellor D.
  • a WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Related Research and Training, United States
  • b School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Medicine, Nursing and Behavioural Sciences Deakin University, Australia

Abstract

Migration from third-world and low-income countries to high-income Western countries presents significant challenges for individuals and families, and for health service providers in the receiving societies. Cultural conflicts related to preferred body size/shape and parenting practices, together with differential intergenerational rates and styles of acculturation, can affect nutritional and lifestyle choices and be associated with high rates of childhood obesity. Using African cultures as an example, this paper examines these issues. It concludes that, in designing and implementating obesity prevention programmes, health service providers need to understand these factors and how they play out. © Pier Professional Ltd.

Author Keywords

Migration Obesity Intergenerational Acculturation Parenting

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-77957802874&doi=10.5042%2fijmhsc.2010.0448&partnerID=40&md5=a6918e02a0e3e0cbdffb18933d4246c5
DOI: 10.5042/ijmhsc.2010.0448
ISSN: 17479894
Cited by: 15
Original Language: English