Maternal Perceptions of Mealtimes: Comparison of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Children with Typical Development

Credentials Display

Terry K. Crowe, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA; Jessica Salazar Sedillo, MOT, OTR/L; M. Sarah Porte, MOT, OT/L; Elizabeth Provost, PhD, PT

Abstract

Background: This study examined mealtime techniques reported by mothers of preschool children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and mothers of children with typical development (TD). The mothers’ perceived levels of success and sources of information for mealtime techniques were also reported.

Method: The participants were 24 mothers of children with ASD (ASD group) and 24 mothers of children with typical development (TD group) between 3 and 6 years of age. The Background Information Survey and the Mealtime Techniques Interview were administered.

Results: The ASD group used significantly more techniques in categories of food appearances, restrictive diets, and vitamin/supplement therapy. The TD group used significantly more techniques in the categories of etiquette and negative consequences. Both groups rated techniques similarly with no significant difference between the perceived rate of success for each category. Finally, 91% of mealtime techniques for both groups were parent generated with few from professionals.

Conclusion: The results showed that many of the mothers in both groups used similar mealtime techniques and most implemented techniques that were self-generated with generally moderate perception of success. Occupational therapists should collaboratively work with families to increase mealtime success by recommending interventions that are individualized and family centered.

Recommended Citation

Crowe, T. K., Salazar Sedillo, J., Porte, M., & Provost, E. (2017). Maternal Perceptions of Mealtimes: Comparison of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Children with Typical Development. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 5(2). https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.1312