“This boy doesn’t eat” – Mothers’ narratives about food selectivity and autism

Abstract

Introduction: Eating difficulties are increasingly present in childhood, with emphasis on food selectivity. The experience of eating together for families of children with autism and food selectivity is perceived by mothers as exhausting and stressful. Objective: To understand maternal representations about the food selectivity of their children with autism. Method: Phenomenological research carried out with mothers of children with autism and food selectivity. In-depth interviews were carried out to collect data; the interpretation was made through Thematic Analysis. Results: The analysis allowed the formation of five categories. The first highlighted the maternal perception of the onset of eating problems during breastfeeding and food introduction; and the main difficulties during eating. The second category addresses the diagnostic discovery and the feelings of insecurity, guilt and relief triggered. Overload of care, abandonment of occupational roles, self-questioning and strategies used to improve the child's nutrition are addressed in the third category. The fourth theme comprises the support network offered by spouses and family members, perceived as insecure, in contrast to the substantial support from other mothers in similar situations. Future fears and desires were perceived and associated with conditions of stress, depression and anxiety in the fifth category. Conclusion: Food selectivity causes maternal exhaustion, abandonment of occupational roles, psychological suffering and is disruptive to family daily life. Identifying signs of risk and intervening early, involving caregivers, seems to be a crucial measure of the needs of the problem. Further studies are suggested that investigate these measures.