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Are family meal patterns associated with disordered eating behaviors among adolescents?
Abstract
To examine associations between family meal patterns (frequency, priority, atmosphere, and structure of family meals) and disordered eating (unhealthy weight control behaviors, binge eating, and chronic dieting) in adolescent girls and boys.
Survey and anthropometric data were collected from 4746 ethnically diverse adolescents from public middle and senior high schools who participated in the Project EAT study (Eating Among Teens). Variables of interest included family meal patterns and disordered eating behaviors. Logistic regressions were performed to examine associations between family meal patterns and disordered eating behaviors adjusting for body mass index, sociodemographic characteristics, family connectedness, and weight pressures within the home.
In general, adolescents who reported more frequent family meals, high priority for family meals, a positive atmosphere at family meals, and a more structured family meal environment were less likely to engage in disordered eating. For example, 18.1% of girls who reported 1-2 family meals/week engaged in extreme weight control behaviors compared with 8.8% of girls who reported 3-4 family meals/week. Making family meals a priority, in spite of scheduling difficulties, emerged as the most consistent protective factor for disordered eating. Associations between family meal patterns and disordered eating behaviors tended to be stronger among girls than among boys. Family meal patterns were more consistently associated with unhealthy weight control behaviors than with chronic dieting and binge eating. Although associations between family meals and disordered eating were weakened after adjusting for more global familial factors, including family connectedness and weight-specific pressures within the home, a number of the associations remained statistically significant, suggesting an independent relationship between family meals and disordered eating.
Family meals have the potential to play an important role in the prevention of unhealthy weight control behaviors among youth. Findings suggest that attention needs to be directed toward increasing family meal frequency and creating a positive environment for family meals.
... Family mealtime is a practice that influences a range of behavioral outcomes in children, including health behaviors (Fulkerson et al., 2006;Godfrey et al., 2013;Harrison et al., 2015;Ju et al., 2023). Having frequent family meals is especially recognized for its protective role in reducing the likelihood of engaging in disordered eating in children and adolescentsa spectrum of behaviors from typical eating behaviors to symptoms that align with clinically diagnosed eating disorders that are less in frequency and intensity (Fulkerson et al., 2006;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004, 2008. These behaviors incorporate binge eating, purging, and excessive weight control, which can emerge from childhood and persist into adulthood (Breton et al., 2023;Larsen et al., 2015;Larson et al., 2007;López-Gil et al., 2023;Toni et al., 2017). ...
... Past research reveals a robust association between frequent family mealtimes and healthy eating in children and reduced disordered eating behaviors in adolescents from ethnically and socioeconomically diverse backgrounds (Fulkerson et al., 2006;Haines et al., 2010;Hammons & Fiese, 2011;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004, 2008. However, the racial/ethnic differences in the associations between mealtime frequency and disordered eating behaviors remain underexplored. ...
... Population-based studies further substantiate the findings, showing the relationship between frequent mealtimes and disordered eating behaviors in youth from diverse sociodemographic backgrounds (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2010). The gender difference in these links has been well-investigated to inform variation in risk and relevant protective factors for individuals (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004. For instance, the associations between mealtime frequency and disordered eating were more prominent in girls, especially concerning weight control behaviors; Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2010). ...
... Prospective studies have shown that frequent family meals are protective against the development of maladaptive eating behaviors and promote healthful diet quality among youth (Burgess-Champoux et al., 2009;Haines et al., 2009;Mou et al., 2021;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2008). There are multiple factors that likely contribute to the health benefits of family meals, including the quality of interactions at family meals, or atmosphere (e.g., emotional climate, chaos; Berge et al., 2014;Loth et al., 2015;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004). Parents' experiences of daily stressors may hinder their capacity to carry out family meals and serve healthful foods (Tate et al., 2020) and, due to emotional transmission processes within families (i.e., spillover of emotion between family subsystems such as parent-child or sibling; Larson & Almeida, 1999), may have implications for the atmosphere of family meals. ...
... Although the protective effects of family meals for youth development may be attributed to a range of factors, including the nutritional quality of family meals, the structure and routine that family meals provide, opportunities afforded for positive food parenting, family connection, cohesion, and scaffolding of adaptive coping strategies (Fiese & Bost, 2016;Franko et al., 2008;Hammons & Fiese, 2011), family meal atmosphere appears to play an integral role. For example, chaos, distractions, and negative interpersonal interactions during family meals may undermine potential benefits, whereas positive communication and interactions may promote better psychological and physical health outcomes for youth, including less engagement in disordered eating (Berge et al., 2014;Fiese & Bost, 2016;Loth et al., 2015;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004). Therefore, the occurrence of family meals, the healthfulness of foods served, and the atmosphere during those meals may be important proximal metrics of long-term health outcomes for youth. ...
... However, parents' experiences of family-related stressors appear to have ramifications for the atmosphere of family meals. This finding is important because previous research suggests that the health benefits conferred by family meals are partly attributable to the family meal atmosphere (Berge et al., 2013(Berge et al., , 2014Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004. Our findings suggest several opportunities for preventive interventions and health promotion. ...
Family meals are beneficial for youth healthy development. However, parents’ experiences of daily stressors may hinder their capacity to facilitate family meals, serve healthful foods, and have implications for the family meal atmosphere. Using data from ecological momentary assessment, we examined whether family meals are less likely to occur, meals are less healthful, and meal atmosphere is less positive on days when parents experience higher-than-usual stress and whether coparenting support buffers these associations. We also explored the role of family stressors in these links. Participants were 497 parents (Mage = 35.86 years; 91% female) of 5- to 9-year-old children who identified as Asian (15%), Black (17%), Hispanic (10%), Native American (10%), Native Hawaiian (<1%), White (38%), multiracial (8%), or other (<1%). Results from multilevel models indicated that daily deviations in parents’ stress levels were not correlated with family meal occurrence, healthfulness, or positive atmosphere. However, on days when the source of parents’ stress was family related (e.g., family demands), odds of a positive meal atmosphere were significantly lower (OR = 0.92, 95% CI [0.88, 0.96]), adjusting for other sources of stress. Coparenting relationship quality was positively associated with family meal occurrence (OR = 1.34, 95% CI [1.01, 1.79]) and healthfulness (γ = 0.20, p < .001), however, it did not moderate links between stress and family meal occurrence, healthfulness, or atmosphere. Findings suggest that day-to-day fluctuations in parents’ stress levels may not disrupt whether a family meal occurs, the healthfulness of foods served, or the atmosphere of family meals. However, family stressors and coparenting relationship quality merit investigation as potential intervention targets.
... The pattern is consistent: boys are more likely to report having frequent family meals than girls of the same age (8,12,13). Proposed explanations for gender differences include the suggestion that girls are more likely than boys to be affected by family instabilities (8,12,14), such as family economic problems and parents' negative feelings, and more likely to skip family meals because they are uncomfortable or as a way to control their weight (15)(16)(17). ...
... Family meal frequency was measured by asking: "In a usual week, how many times do all of the people in your family who live with you eat dinner together?" with response options of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7+ times a week (7,9,15). For analysis, response options were classified into two categories: 0-4 times per week and 5-7 times per week, with the latter category considered frequent family meals (FFM). ...
... Many studies have focused on the relationship between FFM and healthy eating patterns, and most of these have been conducted with girls (17,27). Frequent family meals have been associated with a decrease in problematic eating behaviors such as extreme dietary restriction, anorexia and bulimia, skipping meals, overeating, and poor food choices (15,28,29). Interventions for families with overweight adolescent girls have had some success in increasing family meal participation by stressing its importance in their daughters' weight loss efforts (30,31). ...
Background
Family meals are associated with adolescent health outcomes. Studies have reported that girls are less likely than boys to have dinner with their families.
Purpose
This study examined gender differences in family meal frequency and the relationship between meal frequency and other health measures, using a large and representative sample of California middle and high school students.
Methods
This study analyzed data from the 2019–2020 California Student Tobacco Survey (159,904 students in grades 8, 10, and 12). Dinner with the family 5–7 times per week was defined as high frequency. Students reported substance use (of tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol) and rated their mental health and happiness in their home life. All analyses were weighted to reflect the California student population.
Results
Fewer than half (44.7%) of students reported a high frequency of family meals, with boys more likely than girls and those who identified their gender in another way the least likely to do so (48.3%, 42.2%, 34.0%, respectively). Gender differences persisted across demographics and the quality of family relationships, and were evident as early as eighth grade. Less frequent family meals were associated with poorer mental health (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.29–1.40) and substance use (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.21–1.32), controlling for the effects of demographics and family dynamics.
Conclusion
Gender differences in family meal frequency emerge early in adolescence and persist across demographics and family relationships. Given that family meals play a protective role in an adolescent’s life, these gender differences are concerning.
... Nevertheless, family meals can also entail conflict amongst family members (Riquelme & Giacoman, 2018), and thus, positive or conflictive interactions among family members as they eat together may lead to different atmosphere of the family meals. Family meal atmosphere is understood as the quality of social environment during family meals, related to the degree of enjoyment, satisfaction and communication of family members with one another (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004). ...
... partner effect of mother's atmosphere of family meals on man's job satisfaction; P mf : partner effect of father's atmosphere of family meals on mother's job satisfaction; E m and E f : residual errors on satisfaction for the mother and father, respectively To measure the atmosphere of family meals the Project-EAT Atmosphere of family meals (AFM, Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2000, 2004 was used. Four items assessed mealtime atmosphere: two items related to enjoyment of mealtimes ("I enjoy eating meals with my family" and "In my family, eating brings people together in an enjoyable way") whereas two items tapped mealtime communication (e.g., "In my family, mealtime is a time for talking with other family members" and "In my family, dinner/supper time is about more than just getting food, we all talk with each other"). ...
... The positive link between family meal atmosphere and job satisfaction in fathers expands on studies showing that family satisfaction (Emanuel et al., 2018;Schnettler et al., 2020a;Zhang et al., 2020) and family support (Chan et al., 2020;Lee & Shin, 2017; are associated with positive outcomes in the job domain, enhancing job satisfaction. Given the measure of family meal atmosphere used in this study (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2000, 2004, the positive association found in fathers between family meals and job satisfaction can be explained as a byproduct of enjoyment and positive family conversations (Jones, 2018;Schnettler et al., 2018a) during family meals. This finding agrees with a positive spillover process i.e., a process in which positive experiences can be transmitted from one domain to another (Bakker & Demerouti, 2013), from the family to the work domain in the present study. ...
Research on factors related to job satisfaction in parents has mainly focused on work-related variables, paying less attention to family events that may provide parents with resources to invest in the work domain. To contribute to this body of knowledge, this study examined the associations between family meal atmosphere and job satisfaction in dual-earner parents with adolescent children, and tested the mediating role of family-to-work enrichment (FtoWE) between family meal atmosphere and job satisfaction. Questionnaires were administered to 473 different-gender dual-earner parents in Temuco, Chile. Participants answered the Project-EAT Atmosphere of family meals scale, three items that measure FWE from the Work-Home Interaction Survey, and the Overall Job Satisfaction Scale. Analyses were conducted using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model and structural equation modelling. A positive association was found from family meal atmosphere to job satisfaction, directly and via FtoWE in fathers, and only via FtoWE in mothers. No associations were found for these variables between parents, as, one parent’s perception of a pleasant family meal atmosphere is positively associated with their own FtoWE and job satisfaction, but not with those of the other parent. These findings suggest policymakers and organizations to account for workers’ experiences in the family domain to improve satisfaction in the work domain.
... 2,6 Home food availability has been associated with better child and adolescent eating outcomes. 7 In addition, a number of indices related to family meals, including family meal frequency, [8][9][10][11] regularly serving foods such as milk or vegetables during family meals, 12,13 a positive family mealtime environment, 14 and meals occurring in the absence of television watching, 15,16 have also been associated with positive child and adolescent eating outcomes. Thus, consistent relationships between the home food and meal environment and child eating behaviors have been reported. ...
... This gap in the scientific literature limits understanding of the intergenerational transmission process. [13][14][15] In a study investigating a closely related question, adolescents who perceived their mothers as more invested in healthy eating also reported more fruits and vegetables in the home. 17 Building on these findings, a second study showed that parents who reported more healthy eating behaviors themselves, including consumption of fruit and vegetables and low levels of binge eating among mothers, also reported more frequent family meals. ...
Background
Mothers and fathers have roles in shaping the eating behaviors of young children and the intergenerational transmission of eating attitudes. However, little is known regarding how parental intuitive eating practices are related to characteristics of home food and meal environments.
Objective
To investigate the relationship between parental intuitive eating and the home food and meal environment.
Design
Cross-sectional analysis of survey data collected online and by mail in 2015-2016 as part of the Project EAT cohort study.
Participants and Setting
Participants from 750 unique households (470 mothers, 280 fathers) were surveyed in young adulthood (Mean (M)age=31.4 years, Standard Deviation (SD) = 1.5). Baseline enrollment of participants in the population-based, Project EAT study was conducted in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota schools.
Main Outcome Measures
Intuitive eating was assessed via self-report.
Statistical Analyses
Modified Poisson regression models were conducted, adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.
Results
Among mothers, higher intuitive eating scores were associated with greater likelihood of usually having fruits and vegetables in the home (prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.03) and with lower likelihood of usually having salty snacks and soda pop in the home (PR = 0.91). Higher intuitive eating scores were also associated with greater likelihood of usually serving fruits and vegetables at dinner among mothers (PR = 1.07). Among both mothers (PR = 1.08) and fathers (PR = 1.07), higher intuitive eating scores were associated with greater likelihood of usually having enough time and energy to prepare meals.
Conclusions
Intuitive eating practices in parents are associated with specific home food environment characteristics. Extending the understanding of these relationships in longitudinal data has the potential to inform the directionality of influences and may help to identify targets for intervention.
... Notably, approximately 25-33% of families regularly watch television during family meals [4,16], and such use has been associated with a more negative emotional mealtime atmosphere and youths' poorer overall dietary quality [4,6]. In contrast, greater importance or priority placed on family meals has been associated with less dietary restraint, compensatory behaviors, and depressive and anxiety-related symptoms among adolescents [7,17]. Whether family meal importance or priority similarly serves as a protective factor for parents' eating behaviors and negative affect has not previously been assessed. ...
... However, these mediational associations were only identified at the within-person (not cross-dyad member) level among parents. These findings align with existing within-person research that has identified family meal importance as a protective factor for adolescents' negative affect and, separately, use of disordered eating behaviors more generally [7,17]. Notably, the present results extend this within-person research among adolescents by suggesting that family meal importance similarly serves as a protective factor for parents' maladaptive affective experiences and disordered eating at the within-person level, and by suggesting that these associations extend to the suppression of positive emotions and emotional eating among both adolescents and parents. ...
PurposeThe present study aimed to extend existing research by examining adolescent–parent dyadic associations among adaptive and maladaptive family meal characteristics, positive and negative emotion suppression, and emotional eating.Method
Participants included a community-based sample of adolescents and parents (N = 1646 dyads) who participated in the National Cancer Institute’s Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating Study. Dyad members both completed measures assessing family meal characteristics (family meal importance beliefs, family mealtime television watching), emotion suppression, and emotional eating via online surveys. Actor–partner interdependence models were used to examine dyadic associations among the assessed family meal characteristics, positive and negative emotion suppression, and emotional eating.ResultsMultiple within-person (e.g., adolescent–adolescent, parent–parent), cross-dyad member (e.g., adolescent–parent, parent–adolescent), and divergent adolescent versus parent dyadic effects were identified that differed based on the extent to which participants suppressed positive versus negative affect. For example, whereas adolescents’ stronger beliefs in the importance of frequent family meals were associated with lower levels of their own suppression of positive emotions and, in turn, lower levels of both their own and their parents’ emotional eating, these mediational associations were only identified at the within-person (not cross-dyad member) level among parents.Conclusions
Collectively, these findings attest to the complexity of associations among the assessed risk and protective family meal characteristics, the suppression of differentially valenced emotions, and emotional eating that manifest at the adolescent–parent dyadic level. Findings also support the continued use of a family-based perspective to further the understanding of factors that are associated with emotional eating.Level of evidenceLevel V, cross-sectional descriptive study.
... The rating is based on responses that are at pathological extremes. Responses to the items are assigned a score of zero to 3. The rating for items 1,18,19,23,27, and 39 are as follows: 1 for "sometimes," 2 for "rarely," 3 for "never," and zero for other responses. For the other items in the scale, the responses "always," "very often," and "often" are assigned a score of 3, 2, and 1 respectively, and a score of zero is assigned for other responses. ...
... The students who were not satisfied with their weight had a statistically significantly higher mean score on the FINDRISC than those who were satisfied with their weight and those who were partly satisfied with their weight. Research has shown that the most common method of weight control used by university students is dieting (23). ...
Eating disorders/attitudes might lead to disrupted metabolic control. When body releases insulin insufficiently and irregularly, this causes the blood glucose level to rise. Abnormal eating attitudes and behaviors, which develop especially during adolescence, are acknowledged to be the strongest precursor to eating disorders at later ages. The study aimed to evaluate eating attitudes of nursing students with regard to the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This study was designed as a descriptive. The sample contained 356 volunteers. The data were collected using A Questionnaire For The Risk Of Type 2 Diabetes (FINDRISC), the Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Knowledge Level Scale (CARRF-KL) and the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT) and various measurements such as waist circumference measurement, blood pressure measurement and body mass indeks. The mean scores on the CARRF-KL Scale suggested a statistically significant difference between the students of different grades. Additionally, the students' scores on the FINDRISC were significantly correlated with their weight, body mass index, waist circumferences, family history of diabetes or heart disease, and level of exercising. The findings suggest that higher weight and body mass indexes and larger waist circumferences lead to a corresponding increase in the scores on the FINDRISC and pose a risk in terms of type 2 diabetes and that higher educational status means a higher knowledge level about cardiovascular diseases.
... The potential role of family meals as a protective factor against disordered eating behaviors has been suggested by cross-sectional, retrospective, and qualitative research studies (Ackard & Neumark-Sztainer, 2001;Fulkerson, 2006;Mellin, Neumark-Sztainer, & Patterson, 2004;Miller, McCluskey-Fawcett, & Irving, 1993;Neumark-Sztainer, Wall, Story, & Fulkerson, 2004;Worobey, 2002). Cross-sectional studies have found that adolescents, particularly girls, who report more frequent family meals, are less likely Downloaded by [Girdhar Agarwal] at 22:11 19 June 2013 to engage in disordered eating behaviors than adolescents eating fewer family meals (Fulkerson et al., 2006;Neumark-Sztainer & Hannan, 2000;Neumark-Sztainer, Wall, Story, & Fulkerson, 2004). ...
... The potential role of family meals as a protective factor against disordered eating behaviors has been suggested by cross-sectional, retrospective, and qualitative research studies (Ackard & Neumark-Sztainer, 2001;Fulkerson, 2006;Mellin, Neumark-Sztainer, & Patterson, 2004;Miller, McCluskey-Fawcett, & Irving, 1993;Neumark-Sztainer, Wall, Story, & Fulkerson, 2004;Worobey, 2002). Cross-sectional studies have found that adolescents, particularly girls, who report more frequent family meals, are less likely Downloaded by [Girdhar Agarwal] at 22:11 19 June 2013 to engage in disordered eating behaviors than adolescents eating fewer family meals (Fulkerson et al., 2006;Neumark-Sztainer & Hannan, 2000;Neumark-Sztainer, Wall, Story, & Fulkerson, 2004). Regular breakfast eating (RBE) has been identified as an important factor in nutrition, especially during growth. ...
... For example, prior studies found that youth who reported more frequent family meals had higher intakes of fruit, vegetables, and key nutrients, and lower intakes of soft drinks and saturated fat [26]. In addition, studies conducted among American [27] and British [28] adolescents suggested that girls who reported infrequent family meals had more extreme weight control behaviors (e.g., self-induced vomiting, use of laxatives) relative to girls who reported frequent family meals. Nevertheless, binge-eating was found to be linked with emotionally negative family-meal experiences and not with family meal frequency per se. ...
... Finally, despite the growing literature about family meals and DE, there is a lack of studies concentrating on family meals among ethnic minorities around the world and on the associations between family meals and DE across different ethnic groups. Studies conducted in the USA have suggested that family meals are more common among Asian Americans in comparison to other ethnic/racial groups [27], but differences in patterns of family meals among other ethnic minorities around the world (e.g., Arab youth in Israel) are largely unidentified. ...
Abstract Background Disordered eating (DE), defined as unhealthy eating attitudes and behaviors, is considered a major public health problem among adolescents. Nevertheless, rates of DE among Arab and Jewish adolescents in Israel are still unknown. Furthermore, while previous studies have highlighted the role of frequent family meals as a protective factor against DE, studies examining home family dinners relative to other common dinner options (e.g., eating at home alone, eating out of the home, not eating dinner at all) are largely unavailable. We sought to use representative data of middle and high-school children in Israel in order to identify rates of DE among Arabs and Jews, while examining the relations of home family dinners (vs. other dinner options) with DE. Methods A nationally representative school-based survey of 4926 middle and high-school children (11–19 years old) was conducted during 2015–2016. Participants indicated where and with whom they had eaten dinner the day before. The 5-item SCOFF questionnaire was used (> 2 affirmative items were considered a likely case of DE). Height and weight were measured by personnel. Results DE was more prevalent among girls (29.7%) relative to boys (12.2%), Arabs (25.1%) relative to Jews (19.5%), and older (25.3%) relative to younger (17.6%) adolescents. Arabs were more likely to eat dinner at home with parents/family (chi2 = 10.75, p = .001), or not to eat dinner at all (chi2 = 63.27, p
... Parenting practices related to food, PA, and screen time were assessed using four items from the food parenting practices item bank (Mâsse et al., 2020), 28 items from the Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating study (Oh et al., 2017), and three items from project Eating and Activity over Time (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004). These studies specifically focused on diet, PA, screen time, and parenting practices related to these behaviors. ...
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in substantial changes to family life. This study examined associations between pandemic conditions and mothers’ and fathers’ food, physical activity, and media parenting practices and whether these associations were moderated by parenting styles and family functioning. Two independent samples of Canadian parents (nonpandemic n = 270; pandemic n = 357) self-reported their obesity-related parenting practices, styles, and family functioning. Covariate-adjusted regression models compared parenting practices between the samples. Interactions tested the moderating effects of family functioning and parenting styles on mothers’ and fathers’ parenting practices separately. Compared to nonpandemic mothers, pandemic mothers reported more frequent family meals, more screen time negotiation, and lower modeling of healthy screen time. Both pandemic mothers and fathers reported lower physical activity facilitation than nonpandemic parents. Parenting styles moderated some of these associations; for example, pandemic authoritative parents used less physical activity monitoring (mothers) and screen time negotiation (fathers) as opposed to uninvolved and permissive parents who reported higher use of these practices. The association between pandemic and parenting practices was also moderated by family functioning, especially among fathers. Among high-functioning families, pandemic fathers reported greater engagement in food monitoring, emotional feeding, coercive feeding, healthy screen time modeling, and emotional compensation with screens than nonpandemic fathers and low-functioning family fathers. Pandemic conditions may have negatively affected obesity-related parenting practices, but most associations were moderated by the familial context. The extent to which this will have long-lasting effects on adolescents’ health needs to be further explored.
... Caregivers and parents who themselves engage in dieting, frequent weight talk, and/or weight-related criticism or teasing are more likely to have children who struggle with disordered eating and weight disorders [93][94][95][96]. Family meals should be encouraged as they reduce the risk of disordered eating among children and adolescents [97][98][99][100]. It is helpful to remind families that flexibility, spontaneity, and enjoyment of social and celebration eating are important components of a healthy nutrition pattern. ...
Youth with chronic health conditions face an elevated risk of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors. Contributors to this phenomenon may include the unique threats faced by this vulnerable population to their body image, their relationships with food and eating, and their mental health and self-esteem. However, youth with chronic health conditions may also experience more severe medical complications and mortality from eating disorder behaviors because of the additional risks conveyed by their underlying conditions. In this review, clinical strategies are provided to support youth with chronic health conditions through early recognition of eating disorder behaviors and prompt referral to treatment, which is important for a better prognosis. Suggestions are also given to mitigate their risk of developing eating disorders by proactively addressing risk factors and offering thoughtful anticipatory guidance that promotes a positive relationship with food and eating.
... Family meal importance (parent-reported). Parents were asked to respond to the following four items adapted from the Family Eating Attitude and Behavior Scale (Hogen, 1988) and previously used in Project EAT (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004): "It is important that our family eat at least one meal a day together," "Different schedules make it hard to eat meals together on a regular basis," "In our family, it is often difficult to find a time when family members can sit down to a meal together," and "In our family, children are expected to be home for dinner." Responses were recorded on a four-point Likert agreement scale. ...
This study examined the association between food insecurity and both binge eating and unhealthy weight-control behaviors (UWCBs) and assessed whether such associations differ by factors within the family environment. Data were collected from a diverse sample of adolescents (Mage = 14.5 years; 54.1% female) and their parents/guardians (N = 2137 dyads) participating in EAT 2010 (Eating and Activity over Time). Food-insecure adolescents were more likely to report binge eating (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41-2.69) and UWCBs (PR = 1.34; 95% CI: 1.21-1.49) than food-secure adolescents. Family meal importance (p = .03) and family communication (p < .001) significantly moderated the association between food insecurity and UWCBs, such that the association was weaker at lower levels of these factors. Significant interactions with parental weight talk/concern (p < .001) and weight teasing (p = .04) indicated a weaker association between food insecurity and UWCBs in the presence of these factors. Findings indicate that the association between food insecurity and UWCBs among youth is less salient in the absence of family protective factors and in the presence of family risk factors for UWCBs, indicating the importance of targeting food insecurity itself, regardless of the presence of family risk or protective factors for UWCBs.
... [4][5][6][7] Current literature review has shown that adolescent girls have higher odds than boys to have moderate levels of disordered eating tendencies as they become conditioned by environmental exposures toward changing body size and bodily appearances. [8,9] Disordered eating behavior is defined as a disturbed eating pattern that has a negative bearing on the nutritional status of adolescent girls [10] and is associated with harmful behaviors such as substance use [11] as well as physical and psychosocial consequences like poorer dietary quality, [12] depressive symptoms, [13] weight gain and onset of obesity [14,15] and leading to the onset of EDs. [16] Various factors such as family environment, [17] sociocultural and economic context, [17,18] peer pressure and media influence, and increased concern over body shape and image make them feel dissatisfied with their body shape. ...
Introduction: Indians are experiencing nutritional and lifestyle transitions due to globalization and westernization. The study aimed to find out the current eating patterns and body shape concerns and various factors that influence eating behaviors and body shape concerns of late-adolescent girls.
Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 undergraduate adolescent girl university students from 12 departments in the age group of 17–19 years. Eating attitude and body shape concerns of adolescents were determined by using the standard eating attitude test-26 (EAT-26) and body shape questionnaire (BSQ-34).
Results: The duration of the study was 6 months and participants were selected by simple random sampling. The mean age of the study subjects was 18.52 (±0.63) years. The majority of subjects had an urban background (85%). Less than half had an exercise routine (44%) which was followed daily. As per body mass index (BMI) distribution, 19.57% were underweight, 11.3% were overweight and only 2.17% were obese. An unfavorable eating attitude was found in 18% of subjects whereas 38.2% had mild to the marked concern of body shape. There was a significant positive correlation between BSQ with BMI (r = 0.387, P ≤ 0.01) and BSQ-34 with EAT-26 (r = 0.367, P ≤ 0.01).
Conclusion: Current study shows that late adolescent urban females are susceptible to eating disorders and are body image conscious. Institutional mechanisms should be brought in place to address the need of improving their eating habits and modification of lifestyle.
... Family meal frequency should be considered along with family meal atmosphere. The latter is defined as the degree of enjoyment and communication opportunities that mealtimes afford to all family members (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004;Schnettler, Miranda-Zapata, Orellana, Grunert, et al., 2022). Besides dietary intake, family meals can help a family to bond and to exchange affective resources (Berge et al., 2021;Schnettler et al., 2020). ...
Introduction: Food habits have been associated with positive outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Family members may share protective factors, but each member may also respond differently to the pandemic. Aim: To examine food habits in different-sex dual-earner parents with adolescents, comparing reports from late 2019 before the pandemic (T1) and mid- 2020 during the pandemic (T2) in Temuco, Chile. Method: A sample of 193 families composed of mother, father, and one adolescent aged 10 to 15 responded to a questionnaire at T1 and T2. Non-parametric tests were used to compare family food-related habits and the satisfaction with food-related life of each family member at T1 and T2. An Actor-Partner Interdependence Model was conducted to explore relations between T1 and T2 variables and between family members. Results: Frequency of family meals increased during the pandemic, and mothers increased their cooking hours. All family members improved their diet quality during the pandemic. Perceived family meal atmosphere and satisfaction with food-related life did not change. T1 food habits were not associated with T2 satisfaction with food-related life. Conclusion: These families changed their food-related habits during the pandemic, but their food-related life assessment was similar before and during the pandemic.
... Family meals may offer an opportunity for parents to provide healthy choices and present an example of healthy eating (42,43), or have a family conversation about food (34). In addition, they may contribute to the development of regular eating patterns, support young people's positive psychosocial development (33) and help parents to notice whether or not their child is taking an adequate diet (44). ...
Background
Adolescence is a critical developmental period to prevent and treat the emergence of mental health problems. Smartphone-based conversational agents can deliver psychologically driven intervention and support, thus increasing psychological well-being over time.
Objective
The objective of the study was to test the potential of an automated conversational agent named Kai.ai to deliver a self-help program based on Acceptance Commitment Therapy tools for adolescents, aimed to increase their well-being.
Methods
Participants were 10,387 adolescents, aged 14-18 years, who used Kai.ai on one of the top messaging apps (eg, iMessage and WhatsApp). Users’ well-being levels were assessed between 2 and 5 times using the 5-item World Health Organization Well-being Index questionnaire over their engagement with the service.
Results
Users engaged with the conversational agent an average of 45.39 (SD 46.77) days. The average well-being score at time point 1 was 39.28 (SD 18.17), indicating that, on average, users experienced reduced well-being. Latent growth curve modeling indicated that participants’ well-being significantly increased over time (β=2.49; P<.001) and reached a clinically acceptable well-being average score (above 50).
Conclusions
Mobile-based conversational agents have the potential to deliver engaging and effective Acceptance Commitment Therapy interventions.
... El comportamiento alimentario de los padres y la presión social de los amigos tienen influencias tanto positivas como negativas en los hábitos alimentarios individuales (12). Neumark-Sztainer et al. (15) mencionan que las comidas familiares tienen el potencial de desempeñar un papel importante en la prevención de conductas no saludables entre los jóvenes. Beasley et al. (16), al estudiar trayectorias universitarias de los estudiantes rurales de primera generación, encontraron que el apego a la familia influyó significativamente en las decisiones y los comportamientos universitarios. ...
Objetivo
Evaluar el efecto de intervenciones educativas en la mejora de hábitos alimenticos y adherencia a una dieta saludable y sostenible (dieta mediterránea) en universitarios hondureños en época de COVID-19. La emancipación del hogar ocasiona que los estudiantes universitarios se enfrenten a un nuevo entorno para la planificación de su alimentación durante la transición a su vida universitaria.
Métodos
Se realizó un estudio observacional de cohorte descriptivo transversal entre febrero y junio 2020. Los datos presentados se derivan de encuestas de conductas alimenticias y adherencia a la dieta mediterránea (DM) antes y después de intervenciones educativas nutricionales.
Resultados
El grupo con intervenciones mejoró sus conductas alimenticias pasando de poco saludables (media: 14,4) a moderadamente saludables (media: 17,3); de igual forma sucedió en la adherencia a la DM, pasando de baja adherencia (media: 7,6) a adherencia media (media: 8,3). En el grupo control no cambió su adherencia, manteniéndose en baja adherencia; tampoco cambiaron sus hábitos alimenticios, manteniéndose en hábitos poco saludables (p=0,068).
Conclusiones
Existe evidencia de que el patrón dietético mediterráneo puede ser una opción para reducir los problemas de salud, especialmente, en la época de pandemia, por lo cual esta investigación expuso que un patrón alimenticio mediterráneo puede coexistir en un ambiente latinoamericano una vez que se conocen sus beneficios.
... A high frequency of family meals provides several benefits for families, which include improving weight status and promoting healthy eating habits [10,11]. An absence of family meals is associated with unhealthy eating patterns and poor diet quality [12]. Furthermore, there is a negative association between the frequency of family meals and obesity development [13]. ...
Parents influence adolescents’ weight status through different strategies used in the home environment, including parenting styles (PSs), food parenting practices (FPPs), and family meal frequency. As the prevalence of obesity is higher among African American adolescents, investigation of which parental strategies serve as an adjustable factor for the prevention of obesity is critical. First, this study aims to examine the relationship between the different parenting influences and obesity statuses of both parents and 10–17-year-old adolescents among African American families. Second, it aims to examine the correlation between PSs and FPPs and frequency of family meals. A total of 211 parent–adolescent dyads completed an online survey using Qualtrics. Four PSs (i.e., authoritative, authoritarian, setting rules/expectations, and neglecting) and four FPPs (i.e., monitoring, reasoning, copying, and modeling) were identified for this study, along with family meal frequency. Body mass index (BMI) percentile and BMI were used to assess the obesity status of the adolescents and parents, respectively. No correlation was found between the adolescents’ and parents’ obesity status and the PSs and FPPs, while the adolescents’ BMI percentile was significantly correlated with parental BMI. However, a higher number of family meals decreased the likelihood of obesity among the adolescents to some extend and depended on the type of BMI used. An authoritative PS was the only style related to family meal frequency, while three FPPs, namely, monitoring, reasoning, and modeling, were related to a greater number of family meals in African American families. The findings of this study can be used in the development of parental education workshops/sessions, with consideration of the cultural differences in African American families, and can help parents to adopt the best parenting strategy to promote the healthy weight status of their adolescents.
... In particular, the family environment seems to influence the shaping of eating habits and the evolution of disturbed behavior [19]. Evidence shows that family functioning, communication, and support are related to risk behaviors, mainly due to changing family dynamics [20,21]. Consequently, a poor family environment is linked to eating disorders, while, on the contrary, family cohesion is protective [22]. ...
(1) Background: here is a growing need for integrated and multidimensional approaches to health, especially in a particular category of populations, school-dropout (SD) adolescents, who are traditionally more prone to risky behavior. This study aimed to describe the association between possible risk factors (substance use, eating disorders, social addiction) and well-being perception through the application of a personalized well-being index (PWBI) in SD youths. (2) Methods: Data were collected in 450 school-dropout adolescents (19 ± 2 years, male 308); the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and risk behaviors were assessed by means of a battery of standardized questions. (3) Results: The results revealed an altered perception of well-being in association with eating disorders (p < 0.001), the use of psychotropic drugs (p < 0.001), and the amount of their consumption (p < 0.05). In particular, there was a decrease in emotional state (p < 0.001) and PWBI (p < 0.001) in the presence of eating disorders, and an impairment in all PWBI components, emotional states (p < 0.001), lifestyle habits (p < 0.05), and social contexts (p < 0.001) when taking psychotropic drugs. (4) Conclusions: risk or unhealthy behaviors significantly worsen individual well-being. This study highlights the change of paradigm from a disease-oriented model to an educationally strength-based model when monitoring psychosocial well-being in order to define preventive and health promotion strategies in a vulnerable category of the population.
... In addition to supporting healthier eating behaviors, eating together may hold broader psychosocial benefits for children and adults [11][12][13][14][15]. Several qualitative studies further demonstrate that commensality -both within the family and in other social constellations -is often highly valued, desired, and considered worthwhile across cultures [16][17][18][19][20][21][22]. ...
Background
The practice of eating together, commensality, is rarely explored in the context of childhood obesity treatment. This is noteworthy given long-standing debates about the physical, psychosocial, and societal benefits of meals, especially family meals. Moreover, as children with obesity experience weight bias and stigma both within and outside the home, it is important to examine meals as a locus of social exchange around food and the body. Our study is based on the premises that eating together (i) matters and (ii) occurs in different environments with diverse social organization, where food-related interactions create varying arrangements of individuals, groups, their statuses, and their actions.
Method
The study explores children’s experiences of meals in different social contexts. Thirty-two children (age 8–10 years) living in Sweden were interviewed, 4 years after they entered an obesity intervention trial. Thematic analysis was applied to the data.
Results
We thematized three meal types, with each meal type having two subthemes: (i) “The family meal”, with “Shared routines, rituals, and rules” and “Individual solutions and choices”; (ii) “The school meal”, with “Rules and norms of the school” and “Strategies of the child”; and (iii) “The friend meal”, with “Handling food that was disliked” and “Enjoyment of food”. These three different meal types carried different experiences of and knowledge about how they were socially organized.
Conclusions
While the children spoke about the family and school meals as meaningful, the friend meal stood out as particularly positive. Contrary to our expectations, the children did not express experiences of weight bias or obesity stigma around meals, nor did they speak negatively about parental control of their food intake. Our findings, especially regarding the friend meal, have implications for further research into commensality and social influences on eating among children with obesity, from early childhood into adolescence.
... Overeating (Blum et al., 1989;Neumark-Sztainer, Wall, Story, & Fulkerson, 2004;Yanovski, 1993) Overeating was assessed with the item "In the past year, have you ever eaten so much food in a short period of time that you would be embarrassed if others saw you (binge-eating)?". ...
Various types of stressors are associated with maladaptive eating, but how the stressor of everyday discrimination (e.g., less respect, poorer service) relates to maladaptive eating and adaptive eating remains unclear. We examined everyday discrimination as a predictor of maladaptive and adaptive eating. Data were collected in a population-based study, Eating and Activity over Time (N = 1410, ages 18–30). Everyday discrimination was categorized as none, low, moderate, or high. Outcomes included maladaptive eating (i.e., overeating and binge eating) and adaptive eating (i.e., intuitive eating and mindful eating). Modified Poisson regressions estimated the prevalence ratios (PRs) for overeating and binge eating associated with everyday discrimination. Linear regressions estimated associations between everyday discrimination and intuitive and mindful eating scores. After adjustment for age, ethnicity/race, gender, and socioeconomic status, moderate and high levels of discriminatory experiences were each associated with a significantly greater prevalence of binge eating (PR = 2.2, [95% CI = 1.3–3.7] and PR = 3.1, [95% CI = 2.0–4.7], respectively) and lower intuitive (β = −0.4, [95% CI = −0.7, −0.2] and β = −0.5 [95% CI = −0.8, −0.3], respectively), and mindful eating scores (β = −0.3, [95% CI = −0.6, −0.1] and β = −0.5 [95% CI = −0.8, −0.3], respectively) compared to young adults with no discriminatory experience. Public health efforts to prevent maladaptive eating and encourage the adoption of adaptive eating should consider the potential contribution of everyday discrimination and the need to advocate for equity and inclusion.
... Project-EAT Atmosphere of family meals (AFM, Neumark-Sztainer, Story, Ackard, Moe, & Perry, 2000;Neumark-Sztainer, Wall, Story, & Fulkerson, 2004). This four-item scale assesses the perception of the mealtime atmosphere, with two items related to enjoyment of mealtimes (e.g., "I enjoy eating meals with my family"), and two items about mealtime communication (e.g., "In my family, dinner/supper time is about more than just getting food, we all talk with each other"). ...
The effects of work-to-family enrichment (WtoFE) have been examined on outcomes such as family and job satisfaction, with scarce research on the potential effects of WtoFE on the food domain. To fill in this gap, the present study explored actor and partner effects between WtoFE, the perception of the atmosphere of family meals (AFM), and satisfaction with food-related life (SWFoL) in different-sex dual-earner parents with adolescent children using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model; the mediating role of AFM between WtoFE and SWFoL was also tested. Questionnaires were administered to 473 different-sex dual-earner parents and one of their adolescent children (average age 12.5 years, 51.4% male) in Temuco, Chile. The three family members answered the Project-EAT Atmosphere of family meals scale and the Satisfaction with Food-related Life Scale. Parents answered a measure of WtoFE based on the Work-Home Interaction Survey. Analyses were conducted using structural equation modelling. Results showed a positive association from WtoFE to SWFoL, directly and through the perception of the atmosphere of family meals in both parents (actor effects). Both parents’ WtoFE was associated with their adolescent children’ SWFoL via the adolescent’s perception of the atmosphere of family meals, while the mother’s perception of the atmosphere of family meals was directly associated with the adolescent’s SWFoL (partner effects). Findings suggest that resources that mothers and fathers acquire from work and invest via WtoFE have positive effects on their own and their adolescent children’ perception of the atmosphere of family meals and SWFoL. As higher WtoFE has also been related to other positive outcomes in the job and health domains in workers, policymakers and organizations must aim to promote WtoFE in working parents.
... In addition, family meal quantity and quality (i.e., emotional atmosphere, healthfulness of meal) has been shown to be associated with reduced risk for overweight/obesity in children (Horning et al., 2016;Berge et al., 2014), adolescents , young adults , and parents (Fulkerson et al., 2014); however, not all associations have been consistent Goldfield et al., 2011). Family meal frequency has also been associated with less unhealthy weight control behaviors in adolescents (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2010;Fulkerson et al., 2006;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004) and emerging young adults and with higher emotional well-being and family connectedness/communication in children (Horning et al., 2016;Fulkerson et al., 2018;Dallacker et al., 2018;Dallacker et al., 2019;Robson et al., 2020), adolescents Fulkerson et al., 2009;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2010;Fulkerson et al., 2006;Robson et al., 2020;Eisenberg et al., 2004;Fulkerson et al., 2010;Fulkerson et al., 2007;do Amaral e Melo et al., 2020), and parents (Utter et al., 2018). Furthermore, research examining shared meals with roommates or others living in the same household have shown associations between shared meal frequency and more healthful dietary intake and emotional well-being in young adults . ...
Background
This study examined who is engaging in family/shared meals and associations between family/shared meal frequency and home food availability, dietary consumption, and emotional well-being among young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
A rapid-response online survey was sent to participants in a ten-year longitudinal study (Eating and Activity over Time: EAT 2010-2018). A total of 585 young adults (mean age=24.7±2.0 years, 63.3% female) living with at least one family member completed the COVID-EAT (C-EAT) survey during the U.S. outbreak of COVID-19. Items assessed changes in family/shared meal frequency, eating behaviors, and emotional well-being. Regression models adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics examined associations between family/shared meal frequency and home food availability, dietary consumption, and emotional well-being.
Results
Participants reported an average of 4.6±3.4 family/shared meals per week during COVID-19, a 0.5 meal/week increase from prior to the pandemic (p=.002). Family/shared meal frequency during COVID-19 differed by race/ethnicity, with Asian American participants being most likely to report only 1–2 family/shared meals per week. Family/shared meals during COVID-19 were associated with higher vegetable intake, greater availability of fruits, vegetables, and whole wheat bread in the home, lower levels of depressive symptoms and perceived stress, and greater perceived ability to manage stress in young adults.
Conclusions
Results suggest that engaging in a regular routine, such as family/shared meals, during COVID-19 may have protective associations with dietary health and emotional well-being for young adults. Results may inform practices/routines to offer protective benefits during public health crises such as the current pandemic.
... This scale was developed by Neumark-Sztainer, Wall, Story, and Fulkerson (2004) to understand an individual's family dieting model and to determine its relationship with eating attitudes. Its Turkish adaptation and validity and reliability analyses were conducted by Mance (2006). ...
This study aims to adapting the Family Health Climate Scale (FHC Scale) into Turkish and to conduct its validity and reliability analyses. The FHC Scale consists of two subscales, the Physical Activity Scale (FHC-PA) and the Nutrition Scale (FHC-NU). The validity and reliability analyzes of the scales were done separately. The sample included 789 participants (263 students, 263 mothers, 263 fathers). The sample was randomly allocated to two groups. Explanatory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed on Sample I (132 students, 132 mothers, 132 fathers); and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) on sample II (131 students, 131 mothers, 131 fathers). As a result of the EFA it was determined that three factors FHC-PA Scale; and four factors FHC-NU Scale were included. The CFA result it was determined that scale models had good fit values. The FHC-Scale could be used as a reliable and valid measurement tool in Turkey.
... 가족식사가 가족체계 전체에 미치는 영향에 주목하는 연구가 필요하다. 둘째, 가족식사의 빈도 (Franko et al., 2008;Utter et al., 2013;2018) (Franko et al., 2008;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2010;Utter et al., 2013;2018), 위험행동과는 부적 연관이 있다 Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004;Skeer & Ballard, 2013 ...
... Having mealtime be savored and free of distractions also leaves room for more positive quality time between family members. Family connectedness and the quality of engagement is associated with reduced eating disordered behaviors (Godfrey et al., 2013;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004) and healthy weight status (Fiese et al., 2012). Specific behaviors that can enhance children's wellbeing include flexible mealtime routines and rituals (e.g., assigning tasks such as setting the table; Fiese et al., 2006). ...
L’image corporelle et les habitudes alimentaires commencent à se développer tôt dans l’enfance et sont principalement façonnées par le contexte familial. La recherche sur le rôle déterminant que jouent les parents dans la transmission des normes, des croyances, des valeurs, des connaissances, des attitudes et des comportements à l’égard de l’alimentation est d’une importance capitale, étant donné que les habitudes alimentaires et l’image corporelle s’établissent durant l’enfance et l’adolescence, et se maintiennent souvent à l’âge adulte. À ce jour, les études dans ce domaine se sont largement concentrées sur la contribution parentale quant aux préoccupations relatives à la forme corporelle, au poids et à l’alimentation, mais une quantité croissante d’études explorent la façon dont les parents peuvent également protéger leurs enfants contre ces préoccupations et favoriser une image corporelle et des habitudes alimentaires positives. Le présent article contribue à cette récente tendance en offrant un aperçu de la recherche sur les pratiques parentales se rapportant à l’image corporelle, aux stratégies visant à créer un climat familial positif à l’égard de la nourriture, ainsi que sur les pratiques parentales qui favorisent des habitudes alimentaires saines chez les enfants. En nous concentrant sur les pratiques qui soutiennent une image corporelle et des habitudes alimentaires positives, nous voulons mettre en relief les façons dont les parents peuvent contribuer à prémunir leurs enfants contre la culture des régimes alimentaires et être des alliés dans la lutte contre les pressions sociales concernant le corps.
... 가족식사가 가족체계 전체에 미치는 영향에 주목하는 연구가 필요하다. 둘째, 가족식사의 빈도 (Franko et al., 2008;Utter et al., 2013;2018) (Franko et al., 2008;Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2010;Utter et al., 2013;2018), 위험행동과는 부적 연관이 있다 Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2004;Skeer & Ballard, 2013 ...
The purpose of this study was to examine the association between family meals and family strengths (cohesion and flexibility) in Korean families with school-aged children. We focused on five dimensions of family meals: frequency, family rituals, communication, rules and roles, and perceptions. Our data came from 619 mothers who were married with at least one child in elementary school. Our multiple regression analyses showed that mothers reported higher levels of both cohesion and flexibility when they gave a higher priority to family meals, made family meals a ritual, had conversations on diverse topics during family meals, or experienced lower levels of meal-related stress. In addition, higher levels of family flexibility were found when a family had more structured rules related to family meals and the father more regularly participated in meal-related housework. This study contributes to the literature by understanding the roles of family meals from a multidimensional perspective.
... However, within the feeding context, little research has been done on parental affect, and studies that do exist were conducted with older children. These studies found that a positive affective atmosphere was indeed related to more positive child outcomes, such as a lower BMI in 8-12 year-olds (Berge et al., 2014;Rhee et al., 2016), and more healthy eating behavior in teens (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2006). Therefore, the present study will investigate maternal affect while feeding infants in addition to the concept of sensitive feeding, and how this relates to infant food intake and liking. ...
Positive experiences with the introduction of solid food in infancy may lead to positive associations with feeding in both parent and infant. During this transitional period, parental feeding behavior and infant eating behavior might mutually reinforce each other. A feeding style that is found to be associated with positive child eating behavior, is sensitive feeding. In the present study we tested bidirectional prospective relations between mother and infant behavior in a cross-lagged model using observations of two feeds on two consecutive days on which the first bites of solid food were offered. The sample consisted of 246 first-time mothers and their infants, whose feeding interactions were videotaped during two home visits. Maternal sensitive feeding behavior (consisting of responsiveness to child feeding cues, general sensitivity and non-intrusiveness) and maternal positive and negative affect were coded. In addition, infant vegetable intake was weighed and vegetable liking was reported by mother. Results showed at least some stability of maternal feeding behavior and infant vegetable intake and liking from the first to the second feed. In addition, during the second feed maternal sensitive feeding and positive affect were associated with infant vegetable intake (r=.34 and r=.14) and liking (r=.33 and r=.39). These associations were mostly absent during the first feed. Finally, infant vegetable liking during the first feed positively predicted maternal sensitive feeding behavior during the second feed (β=.25), suggesting that the infant's first response might influence maternal behavior. Taken together, mother and infant seem more attuned during the second feed than during the first feed. Future studies might include multiple observations over a longer time period, or micro-coding. Such insights can inform prevention programs focusing on optimizing feeding experiences during the weaning period.
... The parents believed that family meals gave them the opportunity to instill healthy eating habits in their offspring. It was found that it was during these regular family meals that parents consistently acted as role models for healthy eating [55,56]. ...
Two aspects that characterize the Mediterranean diet (MD) are "what" and "how" we eat. Conviviality relates to "how" we eat and to the pleasure of sharing meals with significant people. The most studied concept is "family meals", which includes conviviality, which involves "enjoying" family meals. Given the lack of research on convivial family meals in Mediterranean countries, the purpose of this qualitative study was to analyze the family meal representations and practices of families with 12-to 16-year-old adolescents to assess whether they responded to a pattern of con-viviality, and to examine their association with MD adherence. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted and food frequency and family meal questionnaires were administered. A food pattern analysis was carried out and digital photos of meals were analyzed to examine eating habits and meal composition, respectively. The findings showed that parents believed family meals are a space for socialization and communication. Items relating to the conviviality of family meals identified in the study were meal frequency, meals at the table, lack of digital distractions, pleasant conversations , and time spent on family meals. Attention should be paid to conviviality in Mediterra-nean families when designing multi-approach strategies to promote healthy eating among adolescents .
... Almost all of the data suggesting a relationship between family meals and psychosocial outcomes relates to the quantity or frequency of family meals, without assessing the quality of these eating experiences. One exception is a study by Neumark-Sztainer, Wall, and others [68], which found that more structured family meal environments and a positive atmosphere at family meals were associated with decreased odds of disordered eating. One study that used experience sampling methods found that meals eaten at home were followed by more positive emotions and less worry than meals eaten away from home [67]. ...
In-home and shared meals have been hypothesized to have positive effects. This narrative review examines research on the influence of in-home eating on diet quality, health outcomes, and family relationships. A combination search approach included a search of PubMed, backward searches of previous published reviews, and studies the authors were familiar with. A search identified 118 publications; 54 original studies and 11 review studies were included in this review. Each study was reviewed and summarized. The diverse designs precluded quantitative data synthesis. Relatively strong evidence from cross-sectional research supports the association of shared family meals with favorable dietary patterns in children and adolescents, including consumption of fruits, vegetables, and healthful nutrients. Correlational evidence links shared meals with health and psychosocial outcomes in youth, including less obesity, decreased risk for eating disorders, and academic achievement. Most evidence is cross-sectional, thus, limiting attribution of causality. There is insufficient evidence to conclude that interventions improve the frequency of shared meals, improve diet, or prevent child obesity. Despite the “common wisdom”, the evidence that in-home, shared meals, per se, have positive effects on diet quality, health outcomes, psychosocial outcomes, and family relationships is limited due to weak research designs and single-item measurement of the independent variable. More research, with stronger designs, is warranted.
... Family meals promote healthy eating and well-being among both children and adolescents (1) . Those who frequently share meals with family members have healthier dietary intakes (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7) and a lower prevalence of disordered eating (8)(9)(10)(11) in comparison with children and adolescents who do not have regular family meals. The benefits extend beyond nutrition, as frequent family meals are associated with lower levels of substance abuse (9,12,13) , depressive symptoms (12,14) and improved academic outcomes (12,15,16) . ...
Objective
Family meals promote healthful dietary intake and well-being among children. Despite these benefits, family meal participation typically declines as children age. This study utilises life course theory to explore parents’ perceptions of family meals in order to understand how parents’ past experiences with family meals (in childhood and earlier in adulthood) influence their current beliefs and practices regarding mealtimes with their own children.
Design
Semi-structured qualitative interviews.
Setting
In-person interviews were conducted in participants’ homes.
Participants
Twenty families (twenty-one mothers and fifteen fathers) with a child aged between 18 months and 5 years.
Results
Thematic analysis revealed that families seemed to primarily approach mealtimes from one of three overarching orientations: meals for (1) Togetherness, (2) Nutrition Messaging or (3) Necessity. These orientations were informed by parents’ own mealtime experiences and significant life transitions (e.g. parenthood). The current family meal context, including the messages parents shared with their children during mealtimes and the challenges experienced with mealtimes, characterised the orientations and families’ approaches to mealtimes.
Conclusions
Parents’ own early life experiences and significant life transitions influence why families eat meals together and have important implications for the intergenerational transmission of mealtime practices. Results may help to inform the content and timing of intervention strategies to support the continuation of frequent family meals beyond the preschool years.
... Several studies noted the independent effects of family functioning measures (eg, family connectedness) on psychosocial outcomes. 67 In addition, many studies 5,8,30,62,68,69 adjusted for family functioning during analyses, limiting the ability to identify the effect. Furthermore, a mealtime observation using an assessment tool such as the McMaster Mealtime Interaction Coding System 70 is often used to assess family functioning, indicating the interrelated nature of these 2 factors. ...
Objective:
To examine the direction and magnitude of the relation between family meal frequency and dietary and family functioning outcomes in children (aged 2-18 years).
Design:
Systematic literature review with meta-analysis.
Methods:
Independent electronic searches, 1 for each outcome of interest, were conducted across 5 databases: PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO. Studies were included if they were peer-reviewed and published in English in the US through December 2018.
Main outcome measures:
Diet and family functioning.
Results:
Dietary outcomes showed some evidence of a positive association between family meal frequency and fruits, vegetables, fruits and vegetables, sugar-sweetened beverages, and the Healthy Eating Index. There was less clear evidence of this relation in snacks, fast food, and desserts. A positive association was found between family meal frequency or dinner family meal frequency and family functioning outcomes. All studies included had cross-sectional and longitudinal study designs.
Conclusions and implications:
There is some evidence to show a positive relation between family meal frequency and dietary outcomes. There is stronger evidence for the relation with family functioning outcomes. Most articles included in the systematic reviews were excluded from meta-analysis owing to inadequate data and high methodological diversity across exposure and outcome variables.
Research has shown the importance of routines for optimal child development. A systematic review can offer a detailed overview of the evidence linking routines to child outcomes, particularly in high‐risk settings. This review aimed to elucidate the association between daily routines and child development and to pinpoint the protective role of routines in high‐risk environments. A search of PubMed and PsycINFO databases yielded literature from 1950 to June 2020. Out of 4297 initial hits, 170 studies met the selection criteria. Findings mainly indicate that routines are associated with positive developmental outcomes in children, covering cognitive, self‐regulation, social–emotional, academic skills, and overall mental and physical health. The results also underline the protective power of routines in challenging environments. The study suggests possible mechanisms through which routines influence child outcomes and recommends avenues for future research, supporting evidence‐based strategies to encourage parental use of routines.
Dietary habits established in childhood, often persist into adulthood highlighting the importance of early intervention. However, limited interventions exist promoting "how" to establish healthful eating behaviors in children. To create impactful interventions, it is important they are based on evidence and co-designed with end-users. Fifteen child health nurses participated in this co-design study, underpinned by the Knowledge to Action Framework. Child health nurses reviewed evidence-based statements and then workshopped practical strategies. Findings from the co-design sessions were used to inform the development of a preventive intervention. The study has important health marketing implications for conducting co-design with child health nurses.
Introducción:
Para las personas con trabajo remunerado, la familia es una fuente importante de recursos psicológicos que contribuyen a su bienestar. Se hipotetiza que el apoyo familiar es un factor protector de la satisfacción vital de la persona, de modo directo y a través de otras variables como las comidas familiares y la satisfacción con la vida familiar. En ese sentido, el objetivo de este estudio fue examinar el papel mediador en serie de la atmósfera de las comidas familiares y la satisfacción con la vida familiar en la relación entre el apoyo familiar y la satisfacción con la vida, en mujeres y hombres con trabajos remunerados.
Método:
Se aplicó la Escala de Satisfacción con la Vida, Escala Multidimensional de Apoyo Social Percibido, Escala Atmósfera de las Comidas Familiares y Escala de Satisfacción con la Vida Familiar, a una muestra de 236 mujeres y 236 hombres con trabajo remunerado en Temuco, Chile. El análisis estadístico consideró un modelo de mediación en serie con un Intervalo de Confianza del 95%.
Resultados:
El apoyo familiar y la satisfacción con la vida correlacionaron de forma directa y estadísticamente significativa. Además, se obtuvo un efecto indirecto significativo de la atmósfera de las comidas familiares y la satisfacción con la vida familiar, en la relación entre el apoyo familiar y la satisfacción con la vida. La atmósfera de las comidas familiares y la satisfacción con la vida familiar son mediadores en serie en la relación entre el apoyo familiar y la satisfacción con la vida, en este grupo de trabajadores.
Conclusiones:
Los resultados sugieren que variables asociadas a la familia y a aspectos sociales de la alimentación influyen positivamente en la satisfacción vital de los trabajadores.
Aim:
To review current evidence for parental food communication practices and their association with child eating behaviours.
Methods:
The PRISMA framework guided the reporting of the review; registered with Prospero in July 2020 (blinded for peer review). Eligible studies were critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Only quantitative studies that included a parental measure of food communication and a child measure of eating behaviour were included.
Results:
From 11063 articles 23 were eligible for synthesis. The vast majority (82%) of studies used observational cross-sectional designs. Three involved observing parent-child dyads, with the remainder using questionnaires. Two quasi-experimental designs tested interventions and two randomised control trial were reported. The majority of measures assessing parental food communication were subscales of larger questionnaires. The Caregiver's Feeding Style Questionnaire (CFSQ) was the most direct and relevant measure of parental food communication. Findings of reviewed studies highlighted that "how" parents communicate about food appears to impact child eating behaviours. Using child-centred communication provided promising outcomes for positive child eating behaviours, while parental "diet" communication was found to be associated with poorer dietary outcomes in children.
Conclusions:
Food communication research is in its infancy. However, evidence for the importance of parents' child-focused food communication is emerging, providing a focus for future research and interventions. SO WHAT?: Given the gaps in our understanding about prevention of disordered eating, there is a significant opportunity to explore what food communication strategies may assist parents to communicate about food in a positive way.
The impact of work-to-family conflict (WtoFC) can extend beyond family and work, and to other domains that contribute to well-being, such as the food domain. This study examined associations between WtoFC, perception of atmosphere of family meals (AFM), and satisfaction with food-related life (SWFoL) in dual-earner parents with adolescent children, and tested the mediating role of AFM between WtoFC and SWFoL. Questionnaires were administered to 473 different-sex dual-earner parents and one of their adolescent children (mean age 12.5 years, 51.4% male) in Temuco, Chile. Parents responded to a measure of work-to-family conflict; the three family members answered the Project-EAT Atmosphere of family meals scale, and the Satisfaction with Food-related Life Scale. Analyses were conducted using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model and structural equation modeling. Results showed a negative association from WtoFC to SWFoL in both parents, while a more positive perception of atmosphere of family meals was linked to higher SWFoL in the three family members. Moreover, WtoFC was negatively linked to SWFoL in parents, while only mothers' WtoFC had a negative association with their adolescent children's SWFoL. Policymakers and organizations can contribute to workers' and their families' food-related well-being by fostering policies and measures to reduce WtoFC.
Background
Positive mealtime emotional climate (MEC) has been linked to better nutrition, psychosocial, literacy and academic outcomes, and fewer behavior problems. However, MEC has been defined in a variety of ways across studies, limiting the ability to synthesize findings and plan future research.
Objective
To identify which child characteristics are associated with MEC and to determine how previous studies have measured MEC.
Methods
We searched three databases (1980–2020) for peer-reviewed articles measuring MEC. Inclusion criteria required at least one child-level outcome related to physical, nutritional, or developmental health; children aged 0–18 years old; and quantitative data using cohort, case-control, intervention, or experimental designs. We used a previously published taxonomy to categorize child/adolescent characteristics as correlates, non-correlates, unclear, or as having insufficient evidence, according to the amount of evidence linking them to MEC. Additionally, we extracted data about the measures and definitions of MEC from each included article.
Results
Out of 668 unique studies identified in the initial search after duplicates removed, 14 met inclusion criteria, and only three used the same measure of MEC. Healthful dietary intake, disordered eating behaviors, and weight/BMI were categorized as correlates of MEC, but links to unhealthy dietary intake are unclear. Several characteristics (e.g. temperament, academic success) were examined in one study only.
Conclusions
Future research should examine the relationship between MEC and child psychosocial child outcomes and utilize a preschool age group. These findings aid in conceptualizing how MEC has been defined and measured and illuminate the importance of MEC on children's health.
This study examined gender differences in the association between childhood maltreatment and disordered eating attitudes and behaviors in adulthood. Data were derived from 1,647 adults (ages 27-33) participating in a population-based, longitudinal study (Project EAT-IV: Eating Among Teens and Young Adults, 1998-2016). Childhood maltreatment (sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, emotional neglect) and disordered eating attitudes and behaviors (overeating, binge eating, extreme weight control behaviors, unhealthy weight control behaviors, chronic dieting, weight and shape concerns) were assessed. Relative risk regression models were used to examine whether childhood maltreatment was related to individual disordered eating attitudes and behaviors. Gender differences in these associations were explored. A history of any childhood maltreatment was associated with more than 60% greater risk for chronic dieting and overeating, with additional associations found for binge eating, weight and shape concerns, and unhealthy weight control behaviors. All types of abuse and neglect were associated with at least one type of disordered eating outcome. Examination of the point estimates indicated that emotional neglect was most consistently related to higher risk for disordered eating attitudes and behaviors. Although there were no statistically significant gender differences in the association between childhood maltreatment and disordered eating attitudes and behaviors, the patterning of these effects highlighted unique qualitative similarities and differences in these relationships between men and women. Taken together, these findings implicate childhood maltreatment, particularly emotional neglect, as a meaningful risk factor for problematic eating outcomes in both men and women during adulthood.
The present study is undertaken to assess the extent of impact of advertisement on eating habits of adolescent of Jabalpur city. A total of 100 adolescent girls were surveyed and found that maximum girls watch television as a source of advertisement followed by newspaper and magazine. College going girls were more affected from the newspaper. Greatest inclination towards the advertised products was seen due to Television in 15-17 age groups. Consumption of chocolates was highest second was noodles and then patties. Strong positive relationship was found between number of advertisement and number of girls consuming the products which is significant at 0.01 level. Co-relation between most watched media, maximum number of advertisement with highest consuming food products by the teenage girls was positively co-related. Maximum awareness of food quality (34% girls) was noted in the 15-17 year group as compared to other age group. Therefore, it can be concluded that food advertising communicates powerful food consumption cues without much knowing about its quality.
Objective
To examine the association between family environment variables (parenting styles, family meal atmosphere), gender-based stereotypes, and food intake in Latin American adolescents.
Design
Structural equation modeling applied to cross-sectional data, 2017.
Setting
Urban and rural sites of San José, Costa Rica.
Participants
n = 813; 13-18 years old.
Results
Data suggest direct associations between gender-based stereotypes and intake of fruits and vegetables (FV) ( β = 0.20, p < 0.05), unhealthy foods (fast food, FF) ( β = -0.24, p < 0.01), and ultra-processed foods (UPF) ( β = -0.15, p < 0.05) among urban girls; intake of legumes among rural girls ( β = 0.16, p < 0.05) and intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) among rural boys ( β = 0.22, p < 0.05). Family meal atmosphere was associated with legume intake ( β = 0.19, p < .05) among rural girls. Authoritative parenting style was associated with FV intake ( β = 0.23, p < 0.05) among urban boys and FF intake ( β = 0.17, p < 0.05) among urban girls. Authoritarian parenting style was associated with FV consumption ( β = 0.19, p < 0.05) among rural boys, and with SSB and FF consumption ( β = 0.21, p < 0 .05; β = 0.14, p < 0.05, respectively) among urban girls.
Conclusions
Findings are the first to describe the complex family environment and gender-based stereotypes within the context of a Latin American country. They emphasize the need for culturally relevant measurements to characterize the sociocultural context in which parent-adolescent dyads socialize and influence food consumption.
Bu çalışmanın amacı, üniversite öğrencilerinin aile ile yeme tutumlarının yeme davranışlarına, yeme davranışların da fast-food tüketim sıklıklarına etkisini ortaya koymaktır. Literatüre bağlı olarak geliştirilen anket ile veriler toplanmıştır. Veriler, Kırgızistan-Türkiye Manas Üniversitesi'nde öğrenim gören 382 öğrenciden elde edilmiştir. Verilerin analizinde SPSS istatistik programı ve Smart PLS 3.3.2 kullanılmıştır. Analiz sonucunda, aile ile yeme tutumu boyutlarından "aile yemeklerindeki atmosfer", yeme davranışlarından "bilişsel kısıtlama davranışı"nı olumlu yönde etkilerken bilişsel kısıtlama davranışı fast-food tüketim sıklığını olumsuz olarak etkilemektedir. Diğer taraftan aile ile yeme tutumu boyutlarından "aile yemeklerinde öncelikler" boyutu yeme davranışlarından "kontrolsüz yeme davranışı" üzerinde olumlu bir etkiye sahipken, "kontrolsüz yeme davranışı" da fast-food tüketim sıklığı üzerinde olumlu bir etkiye sahiptir. Bu bulgular, öğrencilerin sağlıklı beslenmeleri için aile ile yemek yemenin önemine ve fast-food tüketim sıklığını azaltmak için sağlıksız ve dengesiz beslenmeye karşı çeşitli önlemler alınmasına yönelik çalışmalar yapılmasının gerekliliğine işaret etmektedir.
Anahtar Kelimeler: Aile Yemekleri, Yeme Davranışı, Fast-Food Tüketim Sıklığı, Kırgızistan.
Jel Code/Kodu: L66, L83
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study is to reveal the effect of university students' eating attitudes with family on eating behaviors and eating behaviors on fast-food consumption frequency. Data were collected with a questionnaire developed based on the literature. The data were obtained from 382 students at Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University (KTMU). SPSS statistics program and Smart PLS 3.3.2 were used in the analysis of the data. As a result of the analysis, the "atmosphere in family meals", which is one of the dimensions of eating attitude with family, positively affects "cognitive constraint" from eating behaviors, and "cognitive constraint" negatively affects the frequency of fast-food consumption. On the other hand, "priority of family meals" from the dimensions of eating attitude with family has a positive effect on "uncontrolled eating behavior" from eating behaviors, and "uncontrolled eating behavior" has a positive effect on the frequency of fast-food consumption. These findings indicate the importance of eating with family for students to have a healthy nutrition and the necessity of taking various measures against unhealthy and unbalanced nutrition in order to reduce the frequency of fast-food consumption.
Keywords: Family Meals, Eating Behavior, Fast-Food Consumption Frequency, Kyrgyzstan.
A full-text PDF file can be downloaded at
http://family-school.snu.ac.kr/new/sub3/3_2.php?mode=view&number=314&b_name=data4&page=1
Objective
The Project EAT Disordered Eating Attitudes and Behaviors (DEAB) scale was created from disordered eating attitudes and behaviors that tend to interrelate. To examine the appropriateness of the scale, we assessed the fit (i.e., how well a single latent factor fits a set of interrelated disordered eating attitudes and behaviors) and the convergent validity over time.
Method
Five interrelated disordered eating attitudes and behaviors were assessed in a longitudinal cohort (Project EAT, age 11 to 18 in 1998-1999, N=1492). Confirmatory factor analysis examined the appropriateness of the DEAB scale. To examine whether individual variables function differently in relation to the latent construct across time, two models were compared: one requiring indicator-level factor loadings to remain equivalent across three time points (baseline [EAT-I], five-year follow-up [EAT-II], and 15-year follow-up [EAT-IV]), and the second allowing the factor loadings to vary over time. To examine the convergent validity, Pearson correlation with body satisfaction, self-esteem, depressive symptoms, and BMI was compared across time.
Results
The fit indices for a single factor structure supported the use of the DEAB scale over time (standardized loadings: 0.60-0.87, 0.67-0.89, 0.59-0.77 at EAT-I, II, and IV respectively). As hypothesized, compared to fewer number of disordered eating attitudes and behaviors, greater number of attitudes and behaviors was associated with lower body satisfaction and self-esteem, and greater depressive symptoms and BMI p <0.01).
Discussion
The Project EAT DEAB scale can be used as a proxy to measure the severity of disordered eating attitudes and behaviors over time in population-based studies.
Dietary intake, eating behaviors, and context are important in chronic disease development, yet our ability to accurately assess these in research settings can be limited by biased traditional self-reporting tools. Objective measurement tools, specifically, wearable sensors, present the opportunity to minimize the major limitations of self-reported eating measures by generating supplementary sensor data that can improve the validity of self-report data in naturalistic settings. This scoping review summarizes the current use of wearable devices/sensors that automatically detect eating-related activity in naturalistic research settings. Five databases were searched in December 2019, and 618 records were retrieved from the literature search. This scoping review included N = 40 studies (from 33 articles) that reported on one or more wearable sensors used to automatically detect eating activity in the field. The majority of studies (N = 26, 65%) used multi-sensor systems (incorporating > 1 wearable sensors), and accelerometers were the most commonly utilized sensor (N = 25, 62.5%). All studies (N = 40, 100.0%) used either self-report or objective ground-truth methods to validate the inferred eating activity detected by the sensor(s). The most frequently reported evaluation metrics were Accuracy (N = 12) and F1-score (N = 10). This scoping review highlights the current state of wearable sensors’ ability to improve upon traditional eating assessment methods by passively detecting eating activity in naturalistic settings, over long periods of time, and with minimal user interaction. A key challenge in this field, wide variation in eating outcome measures and evaluation metrics, demonstrates the need for the development of a standardized form of comparability among sensors/multi-sensor systems and multidisciplinary collaboration.
This study aimed to evaluate the predictive effect of childhood trauma and several sociodemographic features on eating attitudes.. 612 university students participated in this cross-sectional work. Data were gathered using the Childhood Trauma Scale, Eating Attitudes Test, and Demographic Information Form. The hypothetical model which was planned to be tested in the study was designed with respect to the relational scanning model. According to the analysis, physical neglect was found to have a predictor role over ‘thinness obsession’; and sexual abuse was found to have a predictor role over ‘dieting’. Obesity anxiety and feeling of social pressure was found to be prevalent among females. Body mass index was found to have a predictor role over obesity anxiet’ and feeling of social pressure. In conclusion, assessing sexual abuse and physical neglect might be instructive in planning possible interventions in eating disorder cases and should be considered in treatment.
Objectives
To assess weight-related concerns and behaviors in a population-based sample of adolescents and to compare these concerns and behaviors across sex and weight status.Design
The study population included 4746 adolescents from St Paul or Minneapolis, Minn, public schools who completed surveys and anthropometric measurements as part of Project EAT (Eating Among Teens), a population-based study focusing on eating patterns and weight concerns among teenagers.Main Outcome Measures
Measured weight status, weight-related concerns (perceived weight status, weight disparity, body satisfaction, and care about controlling weight), and weight-related behaviors (general and specific weight control behaviors and binge eating).Results
Weight-related concerns and behaviors were prevalent among the study population. Although adolescents were most likely to report healthy weight control behaviors (adolescent girls, 85%; and adolescent boys, 70%), also prevalent were weight control behaviors considered to be unhealthy (adolescent girls, 57%; and adolescent boys, 33%) or extreme (adolescent girls, 12%; and adolescent boys, 5%). Most overweight youth perceived themselves as overweight and reported the use of healthy weight control behaviors during the past year. However, the use of unhealthy and extreme weight control behaviors and binge eating were alarmingly high among overweight youth, particularly adolescent girls. Extreme weight control practices (taking diet pills, laxatives, or diuretics or vomiting) were reported by 18% of very overweight adolescent girls, compared with 6% of very overweight adolescent boys (body mass index, ≥95th percentile).Conclusion
Prevention interventions that address the broad spectrum of weight-related disorders, enhance skill development for behavioral change, and provide support for dealing with potentially harmful social norms are warranted in light of the high prevalence and co-occurrence of obesity and unhealthy weight-related behaviors.
Presents the benefits of "family mealtime" for children and adolescents. By bringing about family mealtimes, parents demonstrate their commitment to each other and their children. The days per week that adolescents eat meals with their families is a more powerful predictor of whether they are "adjusted" (less likely to take drugs, less likely to be depressed, more motivated at school, and having better peer relationships) than is age, gender, or family type. The single factor common to the best readers from elementary through high school is that their families eat dinner together. Children whose families gather at the dinner table and converse develop more extensive vocabularies at earlier ages, are superior at conceptualizing "real subjects" (as opposed to, say, a cartoon plot), are better able to articulate at an earlier age, and score 2 or 3 grade levels higher on standardized reading and language tests. Family mealtimes also provide an important means for socialization. Although family mealtimes are home-centered, the author contends that schools may also implement a variation of the concept to facilitate increased awareness of their students' emotional lives. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
To assess weight-related concerns and behaviors in a population-based sample of adolescents and to compare these concerns and behaviors across sex and weight status.
The study population included 4746 adolescents from St Paul or Minneapolis, Minn, public schools who completed surveys and anthropometric measurements as part of Project EAT (Eating Among Teens), a population-based study focusing on eating patterns and weight concerns among teenagers.
Measured weight status, weight-related concerns (perceived weight status, weight disparity, body satisfaction, and care about controlling weight), and weight-related behaviors (general and specific weight control behaviors and binge eating).
Weight-related concerns and behaviors were prevalent among the study population. Although adolescents were most likely to report healthy weight control behaviors (adolescent girls, 85%; and adolescent boys, 70%), also prevalent were weight control behaviors considered to be unhealthy (adolescent girls, 57%; and adolescent boys, 33%) or extreme (adolescent girls, 12%; and adolescent boys, 5%). Most overweight youth perceived themselves as overweight and reported the use of healthy weight control behaviors during the past year. However, the use of unhealthy and extreme weight control behaviors and binge eating were alarmingly high among overweight youth, particularly adolescent girls. Extreme weight control practices (taking diet pills, laxatives, or diuretics or vomiting) were reported by 18% of very overweight adolescent girls, compared with 6% of very overweight adolescent boys (body mass index, > OR = 95th percentile).
Prevention interventions that address the broad spectrum of weight-related disorders, enhance skill development for behavioral change, and provide support for dealing with potentially harmful social norms are warranted in light of the high prevalence and co-occurrence of obesity and unhealthy weight-related behaviors.
The aim of this study was to examine young women's recollections of family mealtimes in order to determine whether these memories may serve to differentiate those of normal weight from those who were underweight or overweight. A sample of 340 women selected on the basis of their enrollment in a college course completed the Childhood Family Mealtimes Questionnaire and the short form of the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT). The women were divided into under, normal and overweight groups on the basis of their body mass index (BMI). Two factors (appearance-weight control and emphasis on mother's weight) were significantly higher among the overweight than the underweight women, and mealtime communication-based stress was highest among the underweight women. The use of family mealtimes as a window for understanding the development of eating disorders (ED) is discussed.
This study aimed to identify correlates of unhealthy weight-control behaviors in adolescents to guide the development of programs aimed at the primary prevention of disordered eating. A model explaining unhealthy weight-control behaviors was tested among 4,746 adolescents using structural equation modeling. Models fit the data well and explained 76% of the variance in unhealthy weight-control behaviors among girls and 63% among boys. Weight-body concerns were a strong correlate of unhealthy weight-control behaviors in both girls and boys. Models also emphasized the importance of weight-specific social norms within the adolescent's proximal environment. Findings suggest the importance of addressing weight-body concerns within prevention programs and extending interventions beyond classroom settings to ensure changes in weight-related norms among peer groups and family members.
Objective: To estimate the prevalence of various weight-loss practices in U.S. adolescents and adults. Design: The Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a self-administered survey of a random sample of high school students in 1990 and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a random-digit dial survey in 1989. Setting: Thirty-eight states and the District of Columbia. Participants: High school students (n=11 467) and adults 18 years and older (n=60 861). Results: Among high school students, 44% of female students and 15% of male students reported that they were trying to lose weight. An additional 26% of female students and 15% of male students reported that they were trying to keep from gaining more weight
Context: The proportion of children eating dinner with their families declines with age and has decreased over time. Few data exist concerning the nutritional effect of eating family dinner. Objective: To examine the associations between frequency of eating dinner with family and measures of diet quality. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: A national convenience sample. Participants: There were 8677 girls and 7525 boys in the study, aged 9 to 14 years, who were children of the participants in the ongoing Nurses’ Health Study II.
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Objective To examine family meal patterns and associations with sociodemographic characteristics and dietary intake in adolescents. Design A population-based cross-sectional study design was employed. Adolescents completed the Project EAT (Eating Among Teens) survey and the Youth and Adolescent Food Frequency Questionnaire within their schools. Subjects/setting The study population included 4,746 middle and high school students from Minneapolis/St. Paul public schools with diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. Statistical analyses Associations were examined using cross tabulations, log-linear modeling, and linear regressions. Results There was a wide distribution in the frequency of family meals during the previous week: never (14.0%), 1 or 2 times (19.1%), 3 to 6 times (40.1%), and 7 or more times (24.8%). Sociodemographic characteristics associated with more frequent family meals included gender (boys), school level (middle school), race (Asian American), mother's employment status (not employed), and socioeconomic status (high). Frequency of family meals was positively associated with intake of fruits, vegetables, grains, and calcium-rich foods and negatively associated with soft drink consumption. Positive associations were also seen between frequency of family meals and energy; protein (percentage of total calories); calcium; iron; folate; fiber; and vitamins A, C, E, and B-6. Conclusions Family meals appear to play an important role in promoting positive dietary intake among adolescents. Feasible ways to increase the frequency of family meals should be explored with adolescents and their families. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003;103:317-322.
This study examined whether there were differences and age-related changes in the correlates of dieting and disordered eating during early and middle adolescence. The focus was on normal developmental challenges, especially puberty and dating, as well as body ideal and shape as predictors. Girls in 6th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grade participated. Both pathological dieting (as measured by the Eating Attitudes Test) and simple dieting were examined. As hypothesized, the events of menarche and dating were related to dieting and disordered eating when girls were still adjusting to the former. Neither “event” had long-term implications. Beginning in 9th grade, broader, more abstract concepts of body image, body ideal, and current shape become important predictors. Thus, there were shifts in the nature of predictors of dieting and disordered eating. Older girls dieted more but did not have higher EAT scores than did younger ones. There were differences in the predictors of simple versus pathological dieting.
The literature on the use of family meals as a focus for treatment in anorexia nervosa is now quite old and interest in this area, both clinical and academic appears to have waned. In this paper we explain the use of family meals in our treatment of adolescent eating disorder patients. Whereas earlier descriptions tend to use the language of structural family therapy and emphasize intensification, we focus more on collaboration and on anxiety reduction. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
The study objectives were to (1) increase our knowledge about family meal patterns of adolescents, (2) identify factors that adolescents perceive as reasons for not eating meals with their family, and (3) assess adolescents’ perceptions on whether they eat more healthful foods at family meals than in other eating situations. Focus group discussions were conducted with 141 adolescents from 7th and 10th grade health education classes from urban public junior and senior high schools in Minnesota. Twenty-one focus groups were audiotaped, tapes were transcribed verbatim, transcripts were reviewed for emerging themes, and themes were coded using content analysis procedures. For some adolescents, family meals were part of their daily routine, whereas for others, family meals were not the norm. Diversity also existed with regard to the context of family meals, such as activities during meals and settings for meals. Major reasons for not having meals as a family included parent and teen schedules, teen desire for autonomy, dissatisfaction with family relations, and dislike of food served at family meals. Most of the adolescents thought that they would eat more healthful foods if they ate more often with their families. Key factors that appeared to influence whether participation in family meals would lead to a more healthful diet included food availability at meals, rules around mealtimes, and health-related attitudes of family members. There is great diversity in both the quantity and quality of meals in the families of adolescents. Health care providers working with youth and their families should inquire about family meals and encourage the practice of eating with family members, taking into account what is feasible for a particular family.
This study aimed to increase our understanding of family meal patterns among adolescents. A school-based survey was completed by 252 junior and senior high school students. Nearly a third (30.7%) reported that their families had eaten a meal together at least seven times over the past week, but a similar percentage (31.9%) reported two or fewer family meals over the past week. Frequent television viewing during meals was reported by about half (52.8%) of the respondents. Adolescents reported feeling more certain about making health ful food choices at family meals than in other eating situations. Findings from this pilot study indicate that further investigations of family meal patterns among youth and the associations between family meals and eating behaviors are warranted.
This study examined differences in perceptions of body weight, dieting, unhealthy eating behaviors, and weight control methods among adolescent males and females of various racial/ethnic and socioeconomic (SES) subgroups. Data were derived from a comprehensive health survey administered to 36,320 students in grades 7 through 12 in Minnesota. Differences among ethnic/racial and SES groups were assessed using multivariate logistic regression controlling for grade and body mass index (BMI). Results showed that unhealthy weight control behaviors are not confined to upper SES white females. Compared to white females, Hispanic females reported greater use of diuretics; Asians reported more binge eating; and blacks reported higher rates of vomiting. Black and American Indian females were more likely to be satisfied with their body. Among males and females, higher SES was associated with greater weight satisfaction and lower rates of pathological weight control behaviors. Findings from this study suggest that future research should focus on the validity of self-reports of dieting and weight control behaviors in different ethnic subgroups.
The relationship of early mealtime experiences to later bulimia was investigated in a sample of 128 female college students. Significant group differences were found between bulimics, nonbulimics, and repeat dieters on an early meal experience questionnaire, with the bulimic group reporting the most negative and unusual experiences. Significant differences were also found between groups on depression but not on family adaptability or cohesion. These findings suggest that bulimic, repeat dieter, and nonbulimic females have differentiating histories regarding eating-related issues in the family context.
To estimate the prevalence of various weight-loss practices in U.S. adolescents and adults.
The Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a self-administered survey of a random sample of high school students in 1990 and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a random-digit dial survey in 1989.
Thirty-eight states and the District of Columbia.
High school students (n = 11,467) and adults 18 years and older (n = 60,861).
Among high school students, 44% of female students and 15% of male students reported that they were trying to lose weight. An additional 26% of female students and 15% of male students reported that they were trying to keep from gaining more weight. Students reported that they had used the following weight control methods in the 7 days preceding the survey: exercise (51% of female students and 30% of male students); skipping meals (49% and 18%, respectively); taking diet pills (4% and 2%, respectively); and vomiting (3% and 1%, respectively). Among adults, 38% of women and 24% of men reported that they were trying to lose weight, whereas 28% of each sex reported that they were trying to maintain their weight.
Attempts to lose or maintain weight are very prevalent among both adolescents and adults, especially among females.
Traditional methods for examining binge-eating (e.g. food diaries, laboratory binges), primarily employing clinical samples, have a number of limitations. This paper details three studies utilizing a new methodology to examine perceptions of binge eating: standard videotapes of male and female models consuming doughnuts. College students (n = 459) viewed one of nine videotapes and were asked if the eating behavior of the model was a binge or not. Variables manipulated include gender of the model, number of doughnuts, rate of eating and social (vs. solitary) eating. The number of doughnuts eaten by a female model was sufficient for female subjects to label it as a binge. In order for a male to have binged, females responded to the amount; males required both speed and amount. Results are discussed in terms of their relevance for understanding perception of binge eating in normal and clinical populations.
The potential for undernutrition and links with eating disorders make early dieting an issue of concern. The aim of this research was to examine the eating patterns, social circumstances of eating, and parental use of food in young adolescent dieters.
Four hundred and two 12-year-old children (200 girls, 202 boys) completed assessments of dieting, eating patterns, food-related nurturance, and parental control of eating, together with body weight, height, and self-perception.
Current dieting (20% girls, 8% boys) was strongly associated with fasting and dietary restraint. Highly restrained children ate fewer meals and snacks and reported significantly greater parental control of their eating. However, they did not differ in the social context of eating or in food-related nurturance. Dieting status was a stronger determinant than body weight of all these differences.
These findings suggest that 12-year-old dieters are quite serious in their nutritional intentions. They also confirm an active role for parents in their children's dieting. Both children and their parents are in need of age and gender-specific advice concerning eating and weight.
To assess adolescents' perceptions about factors influencing their food choices and eating behaviors.
Data were collected in focus-group discussions.
The study population included 141 adolescents in 7th and 10th grade from 2 urban schools in St Paul, Minn, who participated in 21 focus groups.
Data were analyzed using qualitative research methodology, specifically, the constant comparative method.
Factors perceived as influencing food choices included hunger and food cravings, appeal of food, time considerations of adolescents and parents, convenience of food, food availability, parental influence on eating behaviors (including the culture or religion of the family), benefits of foods (including health), situation-specific factors, mood, body image, habit, cost, media, and vegetarian beliefs. Major barriers to eating more fruits, vegetables, and dairy products and eating fewer high-fat foods included a lack of sense of urgency about personal health in relation to other concerns, and taste preferences for other foods. Suggestions for helping adolescents eat a more healthful diet include making healthful food taste and look better, limiting the availability of unhealthful options, making healthful food more available and convenient, teaching children good eating habits at an early age, and changing social norms to make it "cool" to eat healthfully.
The findings suggest that if programs to improve adolescent nutrition are to be effective, they need to address a broad range of factors, in particular environmental factors (e.g., the increased availability and promotion of appealing, convenient foods within homes schools, and restaurants).
This study examines the emergence of body image concerns and dieting behaviors in early adolescence as a function of girls' perceptions of family relationships, maternal modeling of dieting behaviors and body image concerns, and familial and peer pressures to diet.
Self-report measures were obtained from 77 White girls and their mothers in early adolescence (mean age = 12.3 years) and 1 year later.
Girls' perceptions of family relations and mothers' perceptions of daughters' weight at Time 1 significantly predicted girls' dieting behavior 1 year later over and above Time 1 dieting and body image. Only girls' previous body image and dieting behaviors significantly predicted more body dissatisfaction 1 year later. Girls' body image was found to mediate the relationship between family relations and dieting at Time 1 assessment, but not over time.
The importance of implementing early prevention and interventions programs is discussed.
Limited information exists about the relationship between family dinner and the quality of children's diets. However, several studies suggest that foods obtained at home have more fiber, calcium, and iron, and less total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium than foods obtained away from home. The results of a recent study confirm and extend these observations by showing beneficial effects of family dinner on the diet quality of children ages 9 to 14. Nutritionists and health educators should look for ways to encourage families to increase the number of meals eaten together to improve the eating patterns of children.
To see how different foods were selected depending on family-togetherness at breakfast and dinner, we investigated the meals of eight thousand primary and four thousand junior high school students by questionnaire. About 70% of primary school children but less than 50% of junior high school children ate breakfast with their family. The food, eaten by children who ate meals together with their family, took more time for cooking and was more traditional with rice as the staple. Food eaten by children who did not eat with their family lacked both preparation time and staple base. Family-togetherness affects the foods of primary school children more than those of junior high school students.
This study determined the prevalence of Minnesota urban youths reaching the Healthy People 2010 objectives for obesity and intake of fat, calcium, fruits, vegetables, and grains and compared prevalence rates across sociodemographic characteristics.
The study sample included 4746 adolescents (aged 11-18 years) from the Minneapolis/St. Paul area who completed dietary surveys and participated in anthropometric measurements as part of a school-based population study.
Considerable gaps were seen between the existing prevalence rates for obesity and nutrient and food patterns and the targeted Healthy People 2010 prevalence rates. For example, 12.5% of the girls and 16.6% of the boys had body mass index values at or greater than the 95th percentile (target = 5%). Only 29.5% of the girls and 42.5% of the boys were meeting the daily recommended intakes for calcium (target = 75%). Similarly, percentages of youths consuming the recommended amounts of fat, fruits, vegetables, and grains were lower than the targeted percentages. There were large sociodemographic disparities in obesity and eating patterns, particularly across race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status.
Concerted public health efforts are needed to achieve the Healthy People 2010 objectives for obesity and nutrition and to reduce racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities.
To examine family meal patterns and associations with sociodemographic characteristics and dietary intake in adolescents.
A population-based cross-sectional study design was employed. Adolescents completed the Project EAT (Eating Among Teens) survey and the Youth and Adolescent Food Frequency Questionnaire within their schools. Subjects/setting The study population included 4,746 middle and high school students from Minneapolis/St. Paul public schools with diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. Statistical analyses Associations were examined using cross tabulations, log-linear modeling, and linear regressions.
There was a wide distribution in the frequency of family meals during the previous week: never (14.0%), 1 or 2 times (19.1%), 3 to 6 times (40.1%), and 7 or more times (24.8%). Sociodemographic characteristics associated with more frequent family meals included gender (boys), school level (middle school), race (Asian American), mother's employment status (not employed), and socioeconomic status (high). Frequency of family meals was positively associated with intake of fruits, vegetables, grains, and calcium-rich foods and negatively associated with soft drink consumption. Positive associations were also seen between frequency of family meals and energy; protein (percentage of total calories); calcium; iron; folate; fiber; and vitamins A, C, E, and B-6.
Family meals appear to play an important role in promoting positive dietary intake among adolescents. Feasible ways to increase the frequency of family meals should be explored with adolescents and their families.
This research investigated three levels of family variables--general family dysfunction, family eating attitudes and behaviors, and negative familial communication regarding physical appearance and encouragement to diet--as predictors of the severity of bulimic symptomatology in a sample of 345 undergraduate women. Participants completed The Bulimia Test-Revised (Thelen, Farmer, Wonderlich, & Smith, 1991), the Family Environment Scale (Moos & Moos, 1984), and the Family Eating Attitude and Behavior Scale (Hogen, 1988) and rated the frequency with which family members made negative statements regarding their physical appearance and the need to diet. A hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated that all three levels of family variables accounted for significant proportions of the variance in bulimic symptomatology. When the contribution of other variables to the regression equation was controlled, negative family communications, external control of food intake, and rules related to family mealtimes remained as significant predictors. These results illustrate the importance of investigating the relative contribution of different classes of familial variables to our understanding of bulimia nervosa and suggest important foci for the prevention of eating problems and eating disorders among young women.
The purpose of this study was to examine associations between bulimia nervosa and family meals. Female college students ( N = 560) completed surveys assessing eating disorder pathology, family meal frequency, and family environment. Results indicate that dinner was the meal most frequently shared with family members. The frequency of eating dinner together as a family was inversely associated with scores on two measures of bulimia, and these associations remained statistically significant after controlling for other familial factors. Familial variables associated with bulimic symptoms included low cohesion and independence, and high achievement orientation. While results indicate that bulimic behaviors are inversely associated with the frequency of a family dinner, these relationships need to be explored within the context of broader family dynamics. Individuals working in primary and secondary prevention settings should evaluate family meal patterns and dynamics in families with a member with an eating disorder.
The relationship between individual psychological characteristics and factors associated with family use of food as predictors of disturbed eating attitudes and behaviors in adolescents
- P D Hogen
Hogen PD. The relationship between individual psychological characteristics and factors associated with family use of food as predictors of disturbed eating attitudes and behaviors in adolescents [doctoral dissertation]. Hartford, CT: University of Hartford, 1988:208. 27. SAS Institute Inc. SAS/STAT Release 8. 8.0 edition. Cary, NC: SAS Institute Inc., 1999.
Supper's on!: Adolescent adjustment and frequency of family mealtimes. 105th Convention of the American Psychological Association
- Bowden Bs
- Zeisz
- Jm
Bowden BS, Zeisz JM. Supper's on!: Adolescent adjustment and frequency of family mealtimes. 105th Convention of the American Psychological Association. Chicago, IL, 1997.
How individuals, envi-ronments, and health behavior interact: Social Cognitive The-ory Health Behavior and Health Education: Theory, Research and Practice
- Perry T Cl Baranowski
- Gs
Baranowski T, Perry CL, Parcel GS. How individuals, envi-ronments, and health behavior interact: Social Cognitive The-ory. In: Glanz K, Lewis FM, Rimer BK (eds). Health Behavior and Health Education: Theory, Research and Practice. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass Inc., 1997:153–78.
Views of adolescents
- Neumark
- D Sztainer
- M Story
- D Ackard
Neumark-Sztainer D, Story M, Ackard D, et al. The " family meal: " Views of adolescents. J Nutr Educ 2000;32:329 –34.
Family mealtime while growing up
- Ackard
Supper's on!: Adolescent adjustment and frequency of family mealtimes. 105th Convention of the
- B S Bowden
- J M Zeisz
Correlates of bulimia nervosa
- Miller
Family meal patterns
- Neumark-Sztainer
Overweight status and eating patterns among adolescents
- Neumark-Sztainer
Factors influencing food choices of adolescents
- Neumark-Sztainer