Table 1.

Aims of the three stages of study

Stage 1 - Focus Groups

• Clarify areas of concern around physical activity, diet and body image;

• Examine the importance of these concerns for the Indigenous men, and the extent to which they are concerned about unhealthy practices;

• Identify factors related to these concerns (e.g., cultural identity, level of acculturation; pessimistic vs. optimistic explanatory styles); and

• Observe healthy and unhealthy practices, and differences between the men.

Stage 2 - Individual Interviews

• Determine the meaning and importance that Indigenous Australian men attach to their health and body;

• Understand the role of risk and protective factors in determining eating and physical activity patterns; • Find ways of promoting healthier eating and physical activity patterns; and

• Examine how each of the above differs in the three locations.

Stage 3 - Action and dissemination of information

• Identify strategic points of action; ways to promote health enhancing strategies; ways to transfer knowledge back to communities; and determine future action and collaboration that is needed

• Organise and facilitate two community events in each location

• Assist and support Indigenous men and local Indigenous researchers to run these events

• Assist local Indigenous men and Indigenous researchers to develop their research skills, further disseminate information, and apply for funding to continue with their specific targeted goals