Factors Influencing Parents’ Eating Behaviors: Insights for Childhood Nutritional Intake

It is well recognized that parents can directly affect the consumption patterns and eating behaviors of children. The purpose of this study was to examine parents’ responses to external factors that influence their eating behaviors. Parents completed a questionnaire that assessed family eating practices and determined factors influencing eating behaviors. Additionally, parents participated in a focus group session designed to dialogue about real-life scenarios related to factors influencing eating practices. Significant findings were revealed through the themes of healthy eating, cooking practices, and eating away from home. Findings also showed the major factors that influence the eating behaviors of parents were time, convenience and conscious choice.