Strategies for Designing Clergy and Spouse Obesity-Related Programs

Abstract

Purpose: Clergy have influence on the health of congregations and communities yet struggle with health behaviors. Interventions tailored to their occupation-specific demands and unique needs may provide a solution. Qualitative methods were used to identify opportunities and resources for the development of an effective obesity-related program for clergy. Approach: Ninety-minute focus groups were held with clergy (3 groups) and spouses (3 separate groups). Discussion explored: Program target(s); Opportunities and barriers that influence diet, physical activity, and stress-reduction practices; Empowering and culturally relevant health promotion strategies. Setting: All study activities took place in Memphis, TN. Participants: Eighteen clergy and fourteen spouses participated. All clergy were male, all spouses were female. Method: Previous research with clergy informed the interview guide and the PEN-3 framework aided in organizing the coding of clergy and spouse focus groups. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcripts analyzed using NVivo® 12. Results: Themes included: 1) Intervention targets—clergy, spouses, congregations; 2) Opportunities and barriers—making time, establishing boundaries, church traditions, individuals who support and hinder behavior change; 3) Intervention strategies—tools for healthy eating, goal setting, camaraderie, combining face-to-face with eHealth modalities. Conclusion: The relationship between clergy, spouse, and congregation make it important for obesity-related programs to target the unique needs of both clergy and spouses. Strategies should focus on healthy eating and personal connections no matter the modality used.