The Nutritional Psychology of Childhood

A comprehensive overview of research on the psychological aspects of nutrition in developing children.

Robert Drewett (Author)

9780521535106, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 21 May 2007

298 pages, 7 b/w illus.
22.7 x 15.3 x 2 cm, 0.49 kg

'… I will certainly recommend this book to all my psychology colleagues who deal with feeding, as well as anyone with an academic interest in feeding and nutrition. … a good, scholarly read for anyone interested in a topic dear to the heart of any clinician or parent dealing with growing children.' Journal of Psychological Medicine

The Nutritional Psychology of Childhood is a systematic account of research on the psychological aspects of nutrition in children from birth to adolescence. It deals with two major themes: the development of eating and the effects of malnutrition on the developing child. Robert Drewett discusses the developmental problems that arise with eating and food intake, including nursing and weaning in infancy, the handling of solids and the development of food choice and eating habits. Nutritional problems are considered in children born preterm or small for gestational age, or whose growth is poor, in children who are iron deficient or more generally malnourished, and in children with physical illnesses, including phenylketonuria and cerebral palsy. The development of eating disorders and obesity are also considered. Drawing on research from both developing and industrialised countries, this book will be of interest to students, researchers and professionals in psychology, nutrition and child health.

1. Introduction
2. The development of feeding behaviour: infancy
3. The development of feeding behaviour: from weaning onwards
4. Born too small or born too soon
5. Nutritional deficiencies
6. Nutritional aspects of some physical illnesses
7. Failure to thrive
8. Adiposity and obesity
9. Adolescence and the eating disorders
10. Some final thoughts.

Subject Areas: Paediatric medicine [MJW], Child & developmental psychology [JMC]