Treatment of behavior-related eating problems in retarded students: a review of the literature

Abstract

A taxonomy of feeding problems is proposed based on the two dimensions of cause (behavior-, neuromotor-, or physical-related) and problem area (drinking, eating, self-feeding, social, or self-injurious). Studies representative of each area were identified and one area, behavior-related eating problems, was selected for indepth review. Examples of children with problems in this area were described and a rationale for intervention was presented based on nutrition and health and normalization. Nine variables in treatment approaches were identified and compared. Integration of four of the variables was described as a viable approach to treating behavior-related eating problems in mentally retarded persons. Personnel involved with the development of mentally retarded students at the severe and profound levels are often concerned with eating and feeding problems. Such problems are extensive within those populations and may be life-threatening. In addition, caregivers often expect that reduction of these problems will also reduce the amount of care such students require. Problems include self-feeding, normal eating (i.e., chewing and swallowing patterns) and appropriate social behavior at mealtime. While bountiful information exists concerning many aspects of feeding and eating, information on some aspects of critical importance is scattered. A taxonomy of feeding and eating problems is presented in this review to show the relationship of available information.