OBJECTIVE: To access the stage of readiness to change (SRC) dietary and physical activity behavior in adolescents and verify the association between the variables gender, age, body mass index (BMI) classification and the SRC. METHODS: 145 adolescents aged from ten to 18 years interested in joining the Multiprofessional Obesity Treatment Program were evaluated. Assessments included, in addition to SRC, anthropometric parameters. For independent analysis, Student's t-test was applied and Mann-Whitney test was applied to compare groups. The chi-square was used to verify possible associations between the variables of the study. A p<0.05 value was was considered significant. RESULTS: About the feeding behavior (amount and portion size), there was an association between BMI classification and SRC. The older adolescents showed more advanced stages in relation to consuming fruits and vegetables, and physical activity. The same was shown in relation to routine physical activities. CONCLUSIONS: There was an association between BMI classification and SRC regarding the amount and portion size, as well as between age and SRC related to fruits and vegetables consumption and physical activity. Experimental studies to verify the influence of SRC dietary and physical activity behaviors on the obesity treatment are needed.
adolescent behavior; obesity; feeding behavior; motor activity
