Parents’ beliefs about appropriate infant growth and feeding: implications for the prevention of childhood obesity

Background A number of modifiable risk factors are associated with the development of childhood obesity, in particular early feeding behaviour. However, there is little guidance as to how health professionals should assess infants and children “at risk” or what the support or intervention should be Parental beliefs and understanding are crucial determinants of infant feeding behaviour; therefore any intervention would need to take account of this. This study aimed to explore parents’ beliefs concerning their infant’s size and growth and their receptiveness to early intervention aimed at reducing the risk of childhood obesity. Method Focus group methodology, thematic analysis. Results Six focus groups were undertaken in a range of different demographic areas, in the UK, with a total of 38 participants who had an infant less than one year old. Five main themes emerged. These were a) overweight or obese womens’ rationalisation for their infant’s larger size, b) parents’ understanding of breastfed infants’ growth, particularly in relation to the growth centile charts, and age-related behaviour, c) parents’ understanding of infant growth, developmental norms and feeding practices, especially in relation to weaning, d) belief that nothing can be done about overweight/obese infants and e) intentions and behaviour in relation to a healthy diet.