The Lived Experiences of Fathers in Mealtimes: A Thematic Synthesis of Qualitative Literature

Abstract

The paternal experience of family mealtimes is an emerging field within qualitative literature. Previous quantitative studies suggest that differences exist between fathers’ and mothers’ mealtime behaviours, particularly in response to fussy eating. However, qualitative research has not yet focused exclusively on fathers’ fussy eating experiences. This metasynthesis aimed to provide insights into the general paternal experience, inclusive of their fussy eating responses. Thematic synthesis methodology was adopted to achieve this process and consisted of a systematic search resulting in the inclusion of 16 studies (18 papers). The direct quotations presented within each study were subjected to three stages of analysis to produce three analytical themes, supported by eight descriptive themes. The analytical themes presented were: (1) environmental influences on fathers’ mealtime experiences; (2) attitudes and emotions of fathers during mealtimes; and (3) observable behaviours of fathers during mealtimes. These themes highlighted the complexity of the mealtime experience from a paternal perspective. Multidirectional relationships were identified between each mealtime component (i.e., the environment, attitudes, emotions and behaviours) as evidenced by the paternal commentary presented. The findings also provided insights into fathers’ fussy eating experiences, recognising that fathers should be considered as individuals in the presence of mealtime intervention.

Caregiver experiences of feeding children with developmental disabilities: a qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis from India

“…This led to a vicious cycle of increased caregiver anxiety and behaviour problems from the children. These findings are also echoed in other studies which reported a bidirectional pattern between negative parental emotional states and disruptive mealtime behaviours in children 5 8 9…”

“…This finding is similar to a thematic synthesis that reported parents using preferred food like desserts to reinforce the consumption of routine meals. They also identified various studies where parents reported technology-based distractions as a barrier to the mealtime experience 5. Conversely, studies have also reported caregivers employing inventive, child-specific strategies to promote feeding behaviour 11.…”

“…They also identified various studies where parents reported technology-based distractions as a barrier to the mealtime experience. 5 Conversely, studies have also reported caregivers employing inventive, child-specific strategies to promote feeding behaviour. 11 When caregivers are unable to access expert care, they come up with strategies of their own.…”

“…These findings are also echoed in other studies which reported a bidirectional pattern between negative parental emotional states and disruptive mealtime behaviours in children. 5 8 9 …”

“…As she also has to take care of other domestic tasks, there is restricted time for quality childcare 4. Research has focused on the bi-directionality of children’s feeding difficulties and negative emotional appraisals of parents during mealtimes 5. Authors suggest identifying both the child’s difficulties as well as the parent’s feeding style and trying to tailor interventions to optimally fit each parent-child dyad 6–9.…”