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.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
June 13,
2016
Footnotes
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The author's conflict of interest disclosure can be found online with this article on www.jneb.org.
Identification
Copyright
©2016 Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior. Published by Elsevier, Inc. All rights reserved.
