Using an Ecological Framework to Understand Parent–Child Communication about Nutritional Decision-Making and Behavior

Abstract

Investigating the content of communication about food and nutrition in the parent–child dyad can provide insight into how roles and rules associated with food are instantiated within the family context. The current study uses an ecological framework to consider the multiple levels of influence on communication and dietary behavior in families. Interviews (N = 33) were conducted with parents and children from low-income families in two different counties within a Midwestern state. Interview transcripts were analyzed using categories developed from the ecological framework. Geographic information systems technology data also provided information about dyads' external food environment and available food options. Results indicate low levels of communication about food choices between parents and children, as well as low involvement from children in food selection and preparation. Findings also identify the accessibility of healthy food and financial considerations as key barriers to facilitating nutritional choices. Strategies for designing interventions that encourage initiation of familial discussions about food, promote positive nutritional role models, and highlight the importance of positive feedback and rewards for healthy food decision-making behaviors are discussed.

Keywords:

• Ecological Framework
• Parent–Child Communication
• Nutrition
• Decision-Making
• Behavior

Acknowledgements

This project has been partially funded with Federal funds from USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—Nutrition Education program by way of the Michigan Nutrition Network at Michigan State University Extension in partnership with the Michigan Fitness Foundation. This material is based upon work supported in part by the Michigan Department of Human Services, under contract number ADMIN-10-99010. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of Michigan State University or the Michigan Department of Human Services.

Notes

[1] Childhood overweight and obesity are defined using BMI values that are adjusted for age and gender. The overweight classification is used for those in the 85th–95th percentile; the obese classification is used for those in the 95th percentile and above (Barlow, 2007).