Abstract
Dieting culture is deeply embedded in many households in the western world, often shaping children's early relationships with food, body image and self worth. Previous research has established links between parental dieting behaviours and disordered eating, but there has been little to no research on the internalised effects of these experiences that children have at a young age, and the effects of these into adulthood.This study aimed to explore how parental yo-yo dieting behaviours have influenced children's experiences with their body image and eating behaviours. Eight participants ages 18-30 took part in this semi structured interview study, they reflected on their childhood memories of their parents dieting, mealtime dynamics and their emotional responses to food. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke's Reflexive Thematic Analysis.
In this study three key themes [NA2.1]came to light: ‘food as a form of control’ describing how parental restrictions created confusion and guilt around food, ‘inheriting the narrative’ which investigated how the participants internalised dieting beliefs they viewed as a child. And ‘trying to break the cycle’ which reflected on efforts to acknowledge the relationships that had been developed because of their parents dieting, and their efforts to develop healthier relationships with their food and their body image.
The findings suggest that parental yo-yo dieting has lasting emotional and psychological effects on children including their attitudes towards food, their self-image and control. These insights highlight the importance of early intervention, open communication and support for families to help prevent intergenerational patterns of unhealthy relationships with food and disordered eating habits.
| Date of Award | 2025 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Nazli Akay Ozturk (Director of Studies) |
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