Abstract

OKAGBARE, TE  and  NAIDOO, S. Parental participation in influencing the unhealthy behaviour of adolescents in their excessive consumption of free sugars: a qualitative study. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2019, vol.74, n.4, pp.165-170. ISSN 0375-1562.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2519-0105/2019/v74no4a1.

INTRODUCTION: The amount, and more importantly, the frequency, of free sugars consumed are strongly associated with the rate of caries formation and of periodontal diseases. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aims and objectives of this qualitative study were to investigate the perceptions of parents regarding their influence of the unhealthy behaviour of South African adolescents in their excessive consumption of free sugars. DESIGN: The study design was qualitative exploratory and the research strategy, inductive, deductive and abductive. METHODS: Data were collected from five focus group interviews using the non-probability purposive theoretical sampling method and the data were analysed using the grounded theory approach. RESULTS: The parents contended that while natural sugars are acceptable, refined (free) sugars cause dental caries and gum diseases. CONCLUSION: Parents attributed the excessive consumption of free sugars among adolescents to their availability both at home and in the stores as well as their affordability. The present study recommends that babies be weaned off exclusive breastfeeding after six months with meals not sweeter than maternal breast milk and parents and schools should provide enabling environments that do not encourage excessive consumption of free sugars.

Keywords : Qualitative research; adolescents; taste buds; excessive free sugars; interventions; oral health; South Africa.

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