Predicting parental monitoring behaviours for sugar-sweetened beverages in parents of school-aged children: An application of the Integrative Behavioural Model

Abstract

Objective:

The objective of this study was to identify theory-based psychosocial and environmental determinants of parental monitoring practices related to child sugar-sweetened beverage consumption.

Design:

Cross-sectional design.

Method:

Data were obtained from a convenience sample of parents (n = 270) with children attending an after-school programme (ages 7–12 years old), in a small, southwestern community in the USA. Parents were approached and asked to complete a valid and reliable survey based upon the Integrative Behavioural Model.

Results:

Using structural equation modelling, a final model proved to have a good fit (Comparative Fit Index = .986, Tucker–Lewis index = .947), and results indicated 28.5% of the variance of parental monitoring was explained by intentions, skills and the home environment, with 56.3% of the variance of intentions being explained by attitudes, injunctive norms and perceived behavioural control.

Conclusion:

Results suggest that the Integrative Behavioural Model offers a useful framework for predicting parental monitoring of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and can be useful when planning future health promotion programmes. Future researchers should consider applying the Integrative Behavioural Model to other obesogenic behaviours.