Faculty Publications

Qualitative Analysis Of Dietary Behaviors In Picture Book Fiction For 4- To 8-Year-Olds

Document Type

Article

Keywords

children, eating habits, pickiness, picture books

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior

Volume

48

Issue

9

First Page

602

Last Page

608.e1

Abstract

Objective Picture books may facilitate parents' efforts to decrease pickiness and other undesirable food habits in children. This study conducted a content analysis of dietary behaviors and feeding strategies featured in fictional picture books compared with those discussed in the research literature. Design Several databases were searched for fictional picture books about dietary behavior, published between 2000 and 2016, accessible in the US, available in print format, and designated for 4- to 8-year-olds. Phenomenon of Interest Messages about dietary behavior in picture book fiction. Analysis Stories were systematically coded using holistic, data-driven, and evaluation coding methods. The final set of codes was examined for themes and patterns. Results Of the 104 books, 50% featured a specific eating behavior, 21% lifestyle/eating patterns, 20% food-related sensations and emotions, and 9% table manners. Conclusions and Implications Books about dietary behaviors are abundant but the topic coverage is unbalanced. Problem behaviors portrayed in books overlap those discussed in the research literature. However, problem-solving strategies and actions do not align with those endorsed by nutrition professionals. Messages vary in their complexity (in terms of their plot and/or language), ranging from clear and direct to vague, sophisticated, unresolved, conflicting, or controversial. Recommendations for practitioners are discussed.

Original Publication Date

10-1-2016

DOI of published version

10.1016/j.jneb.2016.06.005

Repository

UNI ScholarWorks, Rod Library, University of Northern Iowa

Language

en

Link to Full Text

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