Evaluation of the relationship between lack of appetite among children and their parents' perception

This study aimed to examine the relationship between lack of appetite among preschoolers and their parent's mealtime behavior. Based on the data obtained from the mothers of the preschoolers, relationship was examined. Mothers of children between the ages of 2 and 6 participated the study. 201 mothers filled out the surveys that were selected for analyzing research variables. Measurement instruments for this study were Sociodemographic Information Form, Children's Eating Behavior Inventory, and Parental Mealtime Action Scale. Based on the results of the study, demographic variables were compared with parental mealtime actions and children's eating behavior. Results showed significant differences in terms of demographic variables in different levels. Children's positive eating behavior and negative situations during mealtime was reported significantly different in terms of mother's age. Besides, mothers below the age of 30 reported significantly higher scores in the rewarding subscale. Children's negative experiences during mealtime was reported significantly higher in terms mothers' education level. Higher insistency in eating scores related with fathers' employment was reported. Children's positive eating behavior was reported higher in the families with unemployed fathers. Income level was also associated with insistence for eating. In addition to demographic variables, relationship among research variables was also conducted with correlation analyses. Children's and mothers' BMI scores were found as positively and significantly correlated. Additionally, subscales of parental mealtime action and children's eating behavior were also found as significantly and positively correlated. Findings in the study is prominent in terms of providing insight and understanding about preschoolers' eating behavior, which in turn, have effective outcomes for individuals' eating behavior in the long run. Examination of the research variables is critical due to constructing effective programs and providing education for both parents and children. Thus, the findings of this study are considered as contributive regarding further research and training.