Date of Award

Summer 2022

Document Type

Thesis

Department

<--Please Select Department-->

College

College of Natural and Health Sciences

Primary Advisor

Professor Wendy Berry

Abstract

Childhood is a critical time for the development of habits of a person. Food is frequently used to reward children for performing desired behaviors. Using food rewards can create a psychological connection to food that goes beyond metabolic need which may develop disordered eating habits, such as emotional eating, binge eating and food addiction. This thesis examines the roles of food rewards given in childhood and their impact on disordered eating habits in young adulthood. A survey was completed by 58 participants (9 male and 49 female) which evaluated the presence, if any, of food rewards in childhood, the current use of food rewards by young adults, and young adults’ current relationship with food. Statistical analysis concluded that the frequency of childhood food rewarding was statistically significant in predicting subsequent frequency of adult food rewarding (B = 0.67, t (29) = 5.36, p < .001). Food rewards may lead to the activation of the reward system which can drive food consumption beyond homeostatic needs, promoting excess consumption and unhealthy eating habits. These patterns may be introduced in childhood and further established in adulthood.

Download


Share

COinS