The determinants of adolescents’ obesity : a study based on Malta’s senior school students

Abstract

In Malta, overweight and obesity statistics for children and adolescents are increasing drastically, and it is a great problem in public health. The researcher was interested in exploring factors which may contribute to obesity in Maltese adolescents, and how Home Economics is being beneficial in the prevention of obesity since the subject provides knowledge on its prevention, and addresses the idea of healthy lifestyle habits. Based on this, the researcher investigated the current situation as regards the determinants of obesity in Maltese adolescents in senior schools. A research sample composed of Year 9 students attending state and non-state schools in Malta was chosen. Focus group interviews were carried out amongst the research sample in order to gather in-depth information of what is influencing food choice behaviour in adolescents and the effect of Home Economics on behaviour change. Moreover, interviews were conducted with six Home Economics teachers that focused on the role of the subject in regards to obesity prevention and behaviour change, and it also focused on the teachers’ perspective of adolescents’ behaviour towards nutrition. Findings revealed that family is the greatest influence of food choice amongst Maltese adolescents. Furthermore, it was also revealed that Home Economics is being effective in the prevention of obesity; however it is questionable if it is impacting behaviour change.