Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 13, 2026

A Treatment Package without Escape Extinction to Address Food Selectivity
Published on: August 21, 2015
The effect of parental rejection on the emotional eating behaviour of youngsters: A laboratory-based study
Julie Vandewalle1, Ellen Moens1, Guy Bosmans2
1Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, Ghent University, H. Dunantlaan 2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
Abstract:
Results from survey studies demonstrate a relationship between parental rejection and self-reported emotional eating of youngsters. The aim of the current study was to build on this research by examining the relationship between parental rejection and actual emotional eating, using an experimental laboratory paradigm. Participants were 46 youngsters between the ages of 10 and 17 years old. Participants first completed online questionnaires at home, measuring parental rejection and emotional eating style. At the laboratory, participants were randomly assigned to a neutral condition or negative mood condition, followed by a multi-item snack buffet. The interaction effect maternal rejection × condition on energy intake from savoury food was significant. More maternal rejection predicted more energy intake from savoury food in the negative mood condition, but not in the neutral condition. The results highlight the importance of assessing, and if mandatory, improving the emotional bond between parent and child in the prevention and intervention of emotional eating.
Related Concept Videos
Sources of Self-Esteem I: Family Experience
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Socioemotional Development during Infancy
Primary Temperament Types
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Binge Eating Disorders

