| This study investigated linkages between African-American adolescent perceptions on dimensions of family functioning (PDFF) and its influence on body mass index (BMI) in ages 12-15 years. Obesity rates among African-American adolescents continue to surpass the rates of other ethnic groups. Essences to the functions of family are exchange of love, affection, companionship, health promotion, disease prevention, illness management, security, financial stability, sense of identity, guidance, sense of belonging, raising children, and nurturing (Bomar, 2004). Bowen family system theory and Neuman health care systems model were used to explore premises that each member in the family has relationship agreements. Descriptive correlational cross sectional data from 102 African- American adolescents recruited from faith and clinical community sites. McMaster's Family Assessment Device-General Functioning Sub-Scale and demographic form on age, gender, parental household, activity level, image influences, school sibling position, weight concern, restaurant frequency, and activity while eating were administered. The sample group included 67 females and 35 males, ages (M=13.8, SD=1.03), body mass index (M=24.1, SD 5.61), height (M= 63.3, SD 3.3) and weight (M=139.9, SD 39.3). Scores on problematic family functioning revealed an obesity rate of 46.1%. Greater obesity in adolescents residing in two parent households, less weekly restaurant visits, physical activity less three days per week, and females. There was not statistically significant positive relationship between adolescents' PDFF and BMI, p=.084. Adolescent's perceptions of family and weight related issues may assist further development of health promotion and disease prevention policies positively impacting adolescent obesity... |
