Effects of maternal socialization strategies on children's nutrition knowledge and behavior

This study examined the relationship between maternal socialization strateg ies and children's nutrition knowledge and behavior. It was hypothesized th at children of mothers who used strategies that promote the internalization of healthful eating practices would demonstrate greater understanding of t he relationship between nutrition and health. Seventy-nine low-income, immi grant Mexican American mothers and their children (ages 4 to 8) participate d. Measures of maternal strategies and child eating behavior were obtained through observations of mother-child interactions during a meal in the home and through a structured interview. Children's knowledge and awareness of the relationship between nutrition and health were assessed in a structured play session. Results indicated that after controlling for child age, moth ers' use of reasoning, verbal nondirectiveness, and their provision of oppo rtunities for children to participate in food decisions were positively rel ated to children's knowledge and awareness, whereas the use of commands was negatively related. The use of commands, however, was positively associate d with children's compliance to maternal eating directives. Mothers who wer e overweight, who discouraged unhealthy eating, and who used nutrition rati onales had children who gave more physical appearance or weight responses. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.