Association between feeding/mealtime behavior problems and internalizing/externalizing problems in autism spectrum...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Psychology
• Developmental Neuroscience
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with unique challenges.
• Feeding and mealtime behaviors are critical aspects of child development.
• Understanding these behaviors in ASD is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare feeding and mealtime behavior problems in children with ASD versus other neurodevelopmental disorders (NNDs) and typically developing (TD) children.
• To investigate the influence of intelligence quotient (IQ) and emotional/behavioral issues on these problems in ASD.
• To identify specific feeding challenges faced by children with ASD.

Main Methods:

• Utilized validated assessments including the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ), Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory (BAMBI), and Behavioral Pediatric Feeding Assessment Scale (BPFAS).
• Compared feeding and mealtime behaviors across three groups: ASD, NNDs, and TD children.
• Analyzed the correlation between IQ, emotional/behavioral problems, and feeding issues in the ASD cohort.

Main Results:

• Children with ASD exhibited significantly more feeding problems, including food refusal and limited food variety, compared to NND and TD groups.
• The ASD group demonstrated increased mealtime behavior problems and challenges with parent behaviors during meals compared to the TD group.
• Internalizing and externalizing behaviors in children with ASD were linked to increased parental frustration during mealtimes.

Conclusions:

• Feeding and mealtime behavior problems are prevalent in children with ASD.
• Routine screening for these issues in ASD is essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
• Early identification and intervention can mitigate negative impacts on dietary intake and family well-being.