Perceptions of Obese African American Women Regarding Altering Traditional Soul Food

200 Pages·2017·1.05 MB·English

Walden University
ScholarWorks
Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies
Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies
Collection
2018
Perceptions of Obese African American Women
Regarding Altering Traditional Soul Food
Preparation
Patricia A. Young
Walden University
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Walden University

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

This is to certify that the doctoral dissertation by

Patricia Ann Young

has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects,
and that any and all revisions required by
the review committee have been made.

Review Committee
Dr. Leann Stadtlander, Committee Chairperson, Psychology Faculty
Dr. Matthew Howren, Committee Member, Psychology Faculty
Dr. Andrea Goldstein, University Reviewer, Psychology Faculty

Chief Academic Officer
Eric Riedel, Ph.D.

Walden University
2018
Abstract
Perceptions of Obese African American Women Regarding Altering Traditional
Soul Food Preparation
by
Patricia Ann Young

MA, Chicago State University, 1999
BA, Alcorn State University, 1982

Proposal Submitted in Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree of
Doctor of Psychology
Health Psychology

Walden University
May 2018
Abstract
The obesity epidemic continues to be a major concern in the United States. The World
Health Organization reported that 1.4 billion adults were either obese or overweight.
African American (AA) women have the highest incidence of obesity worldwide. The
obesity rate among AAs has continued to rise over the past 2 decades. The problem is
that AA women prepare and consume high caloric foods that contribute to obesity. This
qualitative descriptive study explored the perceptions that obese AA women have about
altering how they prepare soul food to make it a healthier soul food. The empowerment
model and the health belief model were used to frame this study. Data were collected
using a non-probability purposeful sampling strategy. The sample for this study consisted
of 4 focus groups with 6-7 obese AA women (n = 25) who prepare and consume high
caloric soul foods and have a body mass index of 30 and above. Focus group transcripts
were analyzed using a constant comparative analysis and NVivo 11 computer software. It
was found that obese AA women were willing to alter their traditional soul food
preparation only if it tastes good. It was also found that participants would maintain new
healthier eating behaviors depending on the taste, availability of recipes to use, low cost
of healthy ingredients, accessibility of the ingredients, learning how to substitute various
herbs and spices, and amount of food waste. Barriers that could limit participation in an
intervention designed to develop healthier eating habits were identified as ignorance and
laziness, transportation issues, lack of motivation, lack of education, lack of time, no
incentives, and bad reviews.
Perceptions of Obese African American Women Regarding Altering Traditional
Soul Food Preparation
by
Patricia Ann Young

MA, Chicago State University, 1999
BA, Alcorn State University, 1982

Proposal Submitted in Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree of
Doctor of Psychology
Health Psychology

Walden University
May 2018
Acknowledgments
Writing a dissertation is a long and horrendous endeavor, and it takes a lot of
people to see the dissertation process through. First, I would like to thank God. He is the
head of my life as well as my Father, friend, and comforter. Second, I would like to thank
my dear sweet sister, Dr. Myralynn Catchings, who kept me grounded, alert, and on task
daily throughout this process. She prayed with me, sang with me, and provided me with
unlimited access to her for advice.
I would like to acknowledge all the staff and faculty at Walden University who
were patience with me and provided excellent support and advice throughout the
dissertation process. I want to particularly acknowledge Dr. Diane Blyler, my committee
chair. I just thank God for her. Despite all the challenges and frustrated efforts between
us, I am so thankful she did not give up on me. Dr. Matthew Howren, my committee
member, I thank you for enthusiastically saying yes that you would be my committee
member. To my academic advisor, Gabriel Valdovinos, I thank you for always being
positive and having a kind word to say. In addition, I would like to thank my University
Research Reviewer, Dr. Andre Goldstein and Dr. Lee M. Stadtlander for supporting me
and being willing to help me complete the dissertation process. I would like to thank Mrs.
Pamela Brazelton-Sykes, Mrs. Michelle Berkley-Wright, Mrs. Shirley Blissitt, and Dr.
Amy Sickel for their enduring support.
To my son, Tyrik, please know that with men, things are impossible; but with
God, all things are possible. Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not unto your
own understanding. A wise man will hear and will increase his learning, and a man of
understanding shall attain wise counsels. You are now a man; therefore, put away
childish things and walk boldly into your future with love and kindness. I love you
always.
Dedication
This research is dedicated to professional healthcare workers and other
researchers who work diligently to find a solution which address the global obesity
epidemic. This research will be used as a guide to develop interventions and programs
that will help African Americans to understand the value of eating the foods they love in
a healthy manner. I would be remiss to not recognize the contributions that the first Lady,
Michelle Obama made towards combating childhood obesity. Today, school children are
able to eat nutritious meals and hopefully help them to develop an active and healthy
lifestyle. Finally, I dedicate this dissertation to my son, Tyrik and I encourage him to
continue the legacy of excellence in education, health, and empowering others to enhance
their quality of life. As you pursue your doctorate in physical therapy, remain focused
and pray.
Table of Contents
List of Tables ..................................................................................................................... iv
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Study ....................................................................................1
Introduction ....................................................................................................................1
Background of the Study ...............................................................................................3
Problem Statement .........................................................................................................5
Purpose of Study ............................................................................................................6
Research Questions ........................................................................................................7
Conceptual Framework ..................................................................................................7
Theoretical Foundation ..................................................................................................9
Nature of the Study ......................................................................................................12
Definitions....................................................................................................................14
Assumptions .................................................................................................................14
Scope and Delimitations ..............................................................................................15
Limitations ...................................................................................................................16
Significance..................................................................................................................18
Summary ......................................................................................................................21
Chapter 2: Literature Review .............................................................................................23
Literature Search Strategy............................................................................................24
Theoretical Framework ................................................................................................25
Literature Review Related to Key Concepts ................................................................37
Summary and Conclusions ..........................................................................................45
i
Chapter 3: Research Method ..............................................................................................47
Introduction ..................................................................................................................47
Research Design and Rationale ...................................................................................48
Role of the Researcher .................................................................................................49
Research Methodology ................................................................................................51
Data Collection ............................................................................................................56
Data Analysis ...............................................................................................................62
Issues of Trustworthiness .............................................................................................67
Ethical Procedures .......................................................................................................71
Summary ......................................................................................................................72
Chapter 4: Results ..............................................................................................................74
Introduction ..................................................................................................................74
Demographics ..............................................................................................................76
Data Analysis ...............................................................................................................82
Evidence of Trustworthiness........................................................................................84
Results …………………………… .............................................................................86
Research Question 1 ....................................................................................................87
Research Question 2 ....................................................................................................90
Research Question 3 ..................................................................................................100
Summary ....................................................................................................................108
Chapter 5: Discussion ......................................................................................................111
Introduction ................................................................................................................111
ii