Behavior Change Techniques in Physical Activity Interventions Targeting Overweight and Obese Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
2024

Behavior Change Techniques in Physical Activity Interventions for Overweight and Obese Youth

Sample size: 773 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Peng Sanying, Khairani Ahmad Zamri, Yuan Fang, Uba Abubakar Rabiu, Yang Xiaoming

Primary Institution: Hohai University

Hypothesis

This systematic review aims to evaluate the application of behavior change techniques (BCTs) in physical activity interventions for overweight and obese children and adolescents and to identify the most effective BCTs.

Conclusion

The study found that action planning, social support, and material incentives are particularly promising behavior change techniques for increasing physical activity among overweight and obese children and adolescents.

Supporting Evidence

  • Thirteen studies were included in the review, with a total of 773 participants.
  • Action planning, social support, and material incentives showed the most significant potential to promote physical activity.
  • Goal setting was the most frequently applied behavior change technique across all studies.

Takeaway

This study looked at ways to help overweight kids be more active and found that setting goals, getting support from friends and family, and offering rewards can really help.

Methodology

The review included 13 studies that evaluated various behavior change techniques in physical activity interventions for overweight and obese children and adolescents.

Potential Biases

Some studies had high risk of bias, particularly in areas such as randomization and missing outcome data.

Limitations

The review's findings are limited by the moderate quality of included studies and the lack of generalizability due to most studies being conducted in developed countries.

Participant Demographics

Participants were children and adolescents aged 6-18 years, classified as overweight or obese, with a BMI above the 85th percentile.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/bs14121143

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication