An intervention mapping approach: Development of a nutrition and physical activity program for Chinese Americans
Abstract
Background: Obesity rates among the Chinese population are rising, both in China and in the United States. Chinese individuals in China and North America may present with high body fat percentage, visceral adiposity, and adverse health outcomes at a body mass index below the current cut-off for overweight. Interventions addressing obesity are needed to curb rising obesity rates and weight-related health problems among the Chinese population. Objective: The objective of this culminating experience is to use the intervention mapping method to develop a culturally tailored nutrition and physical activity program for Chinese Americans in Houston, Texas. Methods: Program planners used the intervention mapping method to develop a program for adult Chinese Americans. The process consisted of six steps that involved establishing a planning group, conducting a needs assessment, developing matrices of change objectives for health promoting behaviors and environmental conditions, selecting theoretical methods and practical applications, conducting key informant interviews, and planning for program adoption, implementation, and sustainability as well as program evaluation. Results: The end product of the intervention mapping process resulted in the Healthy, Happy Asian Family curriculum. Discussion: The intervention mapping method provided guidelines for program planners to create a theory-based program that addresses behavioral and environmental conditions related to the health promoting behavior. Consultation with the planning group and key informants improved the cultural relevance and feasibility and practicality of the program. The program addresses gaps in the literature such as developing positive attitudes and self-efficacy for nutrition and physical activity among the Chinese population. Conclusion: The intervention mapping method served as a protocol for designing a program that incorporates theoretical methods and practical applications geared towards influencing determinants for behavioral and environmental outcomes. The program was acceptable to potential adopters, implementers, and participants.
Subject Area
Asian American Studies|Nutrition|Public health
Recommended Citation
Chang, Jessica, "An intervention mapping approach: Development of a nutrition and physical activity program for Chinese Americans" (2013). Texas Medical Center Dissertations (via ProQuest). AAI1549822.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dissertations/AAI1549822