Mealtime interactions in families of a child with cystic fibrosis: A meta-analysis

Background: A meta-analysis was performed to examine differences in family mealtimes between families with and without a child with CF. Both global measures of family functioning during the mealtime and parent-child micro behaviors specific to feeding were compared to determine if one class of mealtime behaviors is more strongly affected. Methods: Of 41 studies identified, 10 studies across 4 independent samples met the criteria for study inclusion. All studies included observational methodology. The mean sample age ranged from 18.6. months to 8. years and 6. months. The total aggregate sample size was 230 participants, 119 with CF and 111 comparison children. Results: Families with children with CF encounter more difficulties during mealtimes than comparison families, and the effects on overall family functioning are greater than for parent-child micro feeding behaviors. Conclusion: Findings suggest that future interventions should focus on the broader family context as well as behaviors specific to feeding.