Research Proposal Introduction.

Appendix:

Informed Consent Letter

I have been invited to take part in a research study titled: Effects of Afterschool sports participation on BMI in overweight or obese children.

This study is being conducted by Luis D. Valdes-Castillo, who can be contacted at: 972.505.1329; [email protected].

I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I can refuse to participate or stop taking part any time without giving any reason and without facing any penalty. Additionally, I have the right to request the return, removal, or destruction of any information relating to me or my participation.

PURPOSE OF STUDY

I understand that the purpose of the study is to enroll children aged 12 to 14 whose BMI classifies them as overweight or obese. Their participation in the sport program serves as the research intervention, which will be tested to see if there is reliable evidence that participating in the afterschool sports will cause overweight or obese children to reduce their BMI.

PROCEDURES

I understand that if I volunteer to take part in this study, I will be asked to: enroll and actively participate in a sports program after school from the approved list of 9 activities. I will have my BMI measured and calculated periodically throughout the length of the study, and I will provide answers to a questionnaire regarding my attitudes toward exercise.

BENEFITS

I understand that the benefits I may gain from participation include: reduction in BMI and body weight. By doing so I will be able to prevent or avoid the negative consequences that may result from being overweight or obese which may affect my biological, psychological, and social wellbeing.

RISKS

I understand that the risks of this study are very low as I will have to be cleared by a healthcare provider to participate on the exercise program. Discomforts, or soreness related to the physical stress may result. During sport participation there is a risk of potential injury from physical exertion or contact with other players or equipment involved in the sport. To reduce this risk, all activities conducted will be supervised by a coach.

CONFIDENTIALITY

I understand that the only people who will know that I am a research subject are members of the research team. No individually-identifiable information about me or provided by me during the study will be shared with others except when necessary to protect the rights and welfare of myself and others (for example, if I am injured and need emergency care, if the provided information concerns suicide, homicide, or child abuse, or if revealing the information is required by law).

PARENTAL CONSENT/ CHILD ASSENT

I understand my agreement to participate in this study serves as assent but the final consent for participation in the study is reserved for my legal guardian.

FURTHER QUESTIONS

I understand that any further questions that I have, now or during the study can be directed to the researcher (Luis D. Valdes-Castillo).

Additionally, I understand that questions or problems regarding my rights as a research participant can be addressed to Dr. Jessica Hillyer, Institutional Review Board Director of Compliance and Training, South University, 7700 W. Parmer Ln., Austin, TX 78729;

[email protected]; 512-516-8779.

My signature below indicates that the researchers have satisfactorily answered all my current questions about this study and that I understand the purpose, procedures, benefits, and risks described above. I have also been offered a copy of this form to keep for my own records.

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Signature of Parent/Guardian of Study Participant / Date

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Name of Parent/Guardian of Study Participant / Date

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Signature of Study Participant / Date

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Name of Study Participant / Date