Keywords

acculturation, ethnicity, Hispanic, preschooler feeding behaviors, WIC participants

 

Authors

  1. Seth, Jennifer Greenberg ScM
  2. Evans, Alexandra Elisabeth PhD
  3. Harris, Karol Kaye PhD
  4. Loyo, Jennifer Joleen MEd
  5. Ray, Tara Campbell MA
  6. Spaulding, Carol MS
  7. Gottlieb, Nell H. PhD

Abstract

This study explored preschooler feeding practices and beliefs among Spanish- and English-speaking WIC participants in Texas. The Preschooler Feeding Questionnaire examined 9 dimensions of the parent-child feeding interaction among 235 caregivers. Results from ANOVA and post hoc analyses demonstrated significant differences in reported preschooler feeding practices and beliefs among Spanish-speaking Hispanics in comparison with English-speaking Hispanics and non-Hispanics. No significant differences were found between English-speaking Hispanics and non-Hispanics. Results indicated that acculturation may impact behaviors apart from ethnicity. Nutrition professionals should understand and acknowledge the cultural context of the parent-child feeding interaction when developing programs.