Picky eating is a common childhood phenomenon that impacts many families' occupations surrounding mealtimes. Evidence of the effectiveness of Occupational Performance Coaching (OPC) for caregivers of children suggests it may represent a useful occupation-focused intervention for parents of picky eaters. Using an OPC-targeted intervention, this study aims to report preliminary effectiveness, explore the experience of parents' participation, and investigate factors that influence the OPC intervention.
This study used an explanatory mixed-method design. Parent participants (n=8) were recruited via purposive sampling and engaged in three sessions of OPC delivered via an online platform between October and December 2022. Standardised assessments were completed before and after OPC and a qualitative semi-structured interview two weeks after the final OPC session. Variables were analysed descriptively, and independent t tests were performed to compare scores on each standardised assessment pre- and post-intervention. Pearson's correlation analyses were conducted to consider associations between resistance to change and the extent of change in each outcome measure. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted on postintervention interview.
Improvements in occupational performance as measured by the COPM change score were statistically significant (p <.001). Child eating behaviours, as measured by the CEBQ Food Fussiness subscale change score ( p = .01) and BPFAS change score (p = .02), demonstrated significant improvements. The extent to which parents viewed these behaviours as problematic as measured by the BPFAS problem change score, showed a significant reduction (p<.001). Three themes emerged from interviews with parents: small changes beyond nutrition, parents supported as the experts, and what parents value within an intervention. |
