Overcoming Childhood Obesity: Barriers to the Implementation of Obesity Prevention Policies in Elementary Schools

Abstract

Childhood obesity rates in the United States have been increasing at alarming rates. Schools must play an integral role in obesity prevention efforts to reverse current trends. In order to understand how schools can improve wellness policies, it is important to determine what obstacles they face in implementing such policies and programs. Interviews with stakeholders at the district- and school-levels indicate four main barriers to the implementation of wellness policies: finances, institutional support, participation, and involvement and education at home. The study further concludes that physical activity policies are weaker than nutrition policies. Schools are also found to have greater discretion over physical activity polices than nutrition polices. The key recommendation of the study is that schools strengthen physical activity policies and programs in order to improve obesity prevention efforts.