Family communication is critical in the development of different eating habits
Something that many parents do not know is that the way they talk to their teen can impact eating, dieting, and exercise habits. According to Botta in 2009, there are two main factors of parental communication habits. The first emphasizes consistency between family members when it comes to values and actions where the parents have the final say. Although this is a style of communication that can be helpful to cohesiveness, it actually can cause a feeling of a loss of control to your teen. This can lead to them attempting to control other aspects of their lives, including eating habits. A second way that families tend to communicate with one another is through openness and supportiveness of different ideas. Each member of the family's opinions are valued and considered, and each individual is encouraged to express their own thoughts and feelings. This is associated with a sense of security in the family, and can be protective in preventing the development of restrictive eating habits. Having open communication between family members can help with restrictive habits of teenagers. |
Weight comments are more harmful than surface suggestions
Weight is an extremely sensitive issue for adolescents, and many parents have difficulties expressing their concerns to their child. Parent's weight-related comments the encourage dieting can directly impact teenagers, and can cause their child to practice incorrect dieting habits. Furthermore, teasing a child about their weight can be more harmful than any indirect factors. In order to speak with your child about their eating habits, the best way is to model correct behavior of healthy eating and exercise, and by speaking delicately about your concerns. Furthermore, you should speak with them on how to be nutritious without mentioning their weight. Remember that your comments can have a very harmful impact on your child. |
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