A network approach to understanding child and parent causal attributions in childhood obesity

Abstract

Background: Illness attributions affect psychological adjustment, while parental attributions are associated with treatment initiation, acceptability, engagement and outcome. Current knowledge of child and parent causal attributions in paediatric obesity is in its infancy. The purpose of this study was to investigate child and parental casual attributions in paediatric obesity using network analysis. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used employing the diagram network analytic method. 56 participants (30 children, 26 parents) generated individual causal attribution maps. Network theory was used in the analysis of causal effects and results visualised using open source network visualisation software. Findings: Separate aggregated maps were produced for children and parents. Child maps were analysed by eating style (emotional, external and restraint eating). Parent maps were analysed by child behaviour profile (externalising and internalising). An individual map was reproduced to illustrate the value of network analysis as a clinical tool. Discussion: Investigation of child and parent attributional processes may enhance the treatment of paediatric obesity through the provision of a potential treatment target and a mechanism to individually-tailor obesity treatment for children and parents.