Impact of feeding problems on the parent-infant relationship

Abstract

Fccding an infant is a two-person process in which parent and infant coordinate their behaviors to accomplish a basic and essential activity of daily living. The experience of feeding and being fed may contribute to the development of both the infant and parent and shape the parent-infant relationship. When an infant has problems eating, the subsequent difficulty has implications for the developing relationship. Direct and indirect consequences of feeding problems for the parent-infant relationship arc- explored through a review of the literature. The need to take a holistic view of feeding problems and to include an interaction-based approach to early intervention services is discussed.