Encouraging Self-Regulation of Children's Food Consumption

Abstract

The prevalence of childhood obesity and the associated negative health implications highlight the urgent need for interventions to assist families in preventing and treating the condition. This study focused on children’s awareness of the need to regulate their own food intakes. In a sample of over 500 low and medium socioeconomic children, around two-thirds believed they should always finish what is on their plate and that they should not be permitted to determine the quantity of food they consume. They were thus largely unaware of the need to regulate their own appetites, which is an important element of weight control. The reasons provided by the children for their beliefs indicate that both children and parents need to be better informed on this issue. The results have implications for interventions that aim to encourage parents to adopt authoritative parenting styles in their feeding practices.