Conflict between mothers with eating disorders and their infants during mealtimes

Background In a recent study, 20% of the variance in the weight of infants of mothers with eating disorders was accounted for by mealtime conflict. Aims To investigate the antecedents and interactive processes involved in t he development of such conflict. Method; Mothers with eating disorders and their 12-month-old infants (n=34) and a comparison group (n=24) were videotaped during infant mealtimes. Spe cific classes of antecedents to conflict episodes were identified. An exami nation was then made of all such antecedents not leading to conflict and th e mother-infant responses to each antecedent. Results Within the index group, conflict was less likely when mothers ackno wledged infants' cues and were able to put aside their own concerns. The re lationship between maternal responses and the evolution of conflictual inte raction was confirmed in multiple regression analyses including both index and comparison groups. Conclusions Mothers' and infants' responses to potential antecedents to con flict had an impact on whether mealtime conflict ensued. Conflict arose bec ause maternal eating disorder psychopathology interfered with aspects of re sponsive parenting. Declaration of interest The study was funded by the Wellcome Trust.