Development of a Weight Management Model for Overweight School-Aged Children in Health Region 8

Abstract

This study aimed to: (1) examine the situation of weight management among overweight school-aged children in Health Region 8; (2) develop a weight management model; (3) evaluate the outcomes of the model in terms of knowledge, obesity-preventive behaviors, and pre–post experimental weight; and (4) assess stakeholders’ satisfaction. The research employed Participatory Action Research (PAR) consisting of four steps: (1) situation analysis, (2) model development, (3) model implementation for six weeks, and (4) evaluation.The sample comprised 25 overweight students in grades 4–6 and 35 social support participants, including teachers, health personnel, and parents, selected purposively. Research instruments included a knowledge and behavior questionnaire, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.The results revealed that: (1) students demonstrated increasing risk behaviors for obesity, while teachers and parents recognized the problem and the importance of collaboration; (2) the developed model emphasized clearly defined roles for teachers, students, parents, and health personnel, focusing on informational, motivational, and participatory support; (3) after implementation, students’ knowledge and obesity-preventive behaviors significantly improved (p < 0.001), and their average weight significantly decreased (p < 0.001); and (4) stakeholders expressed high satisfaction with the model.In conclusion, the developed model effectively enhanced knowledge, promoted healthy behaviors, and contributed to weight control among school-aged children.