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Rumination syndrome in children treated by increased holding
Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|August 1, 1985
Summary
Holding therapy effectively treated rumination syndrome in intellectually disabled children. This behavioral intervention, involving physical holding during meals, led to remission in most cases, with punishment necessary for some.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Psychology
- Developmental Disorders
- Pediatric Health
Background:
- Rumination syndrome, characterized by regurgitation and re-chewing of food, is a serious disorder affecting individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- Idiopathic rumination syndrome may stem from social deprivation or attention-seeking behaviors.
Observation:
- Four cases of intellectually disabled children with rumination syndrome were treated using a holding therapy approach.
- Holding the child for 10-15 minutes before, during, and after meals was implemented.
Findings:
- Holding therapy resulted in remission of rumination in three out of four children.
- In one case, punishment (3-minute time-out in a separate room) was additionally required after regurgitation.
- A within-subject reversal design confirmed holding, not distraction, as the effective treatment component.
Implications:
- Holding therapy is a promising intervention for rumination syndrome, particularly when linked to social deprivation.
- Behavioral interventions, including holding and time-out, can effectively manage rumination syndrome in pediatric populations.
- Long-term benefits were observed when holding was continued periodically in the home environment.