Study warns against using food to manage children's emotions

A new study from the University of North Florida warns against using food to manage children's emotions, such as calming tantrums with treats. This practice can lead to unhealthy eating habits, including emotional overeating. The research examined four feeding practices: using food to regulate emotions, rewarding with food, emotional feeding, and instrumental feeding. These behaviors can distort children's relationships with food, teaching them to associate eating with emotions rather than hunger. The study highlights that these habits can have long-term effects, making children reliant on food for emotional comfort. Parents are encouraged to find healthier ways to address behavior and emotions, promoting a balanced relationship with food.