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

Natalie Campbell, Michèle Verdonck, Libby Swanepoel and Laine Chilman
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Natalie Campbell: School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4 Maroochydore, Maroochydore DC, Sunshine Coast, QLD 4558, Australia
Michèle Verdonck: School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4 Maroochydore, Maroochydore DC, Sunshine Coast, QLD 4558, Australia
Libby Swanepoel: School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4 Maroochydore, Maroochydore DC, Sunshine Coast, QLD 4558, Australia
Laine Chilman: School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4 Maroochydore, Maroochydore DC, Sunshine Coast, QLD 4558, Australia

IJERPH, 2022, vol. 19, issue 2, 1-17

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.

Keywords: fathers; lived experience; family meals; feeding behaviour; fussy eating; food fussiness; food refusal (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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