( HS Shkadron 065712 2025) The Not So Picky Picky Eater

Course overview

This seminar delves into the multidimensional characteristics of mealtime, exploring how early feeding experiences and environmental stressors influence our relationship with food. Using theories of health behavior change, including the health belief model, social cognitive theory, and the theory of planned behavior, we focus on how attitudes and preferences regarding food choices perpetuate perceived barriers to change. By gaining insights into theory and the application to feeding practices, participants examine the impact of labels, including the picky eater, on a childs identity. The way in which mealtime is approached has a major impact on ones mental health status into adulthood. Our food choices are further afflicted by trauma, difficulties with executive functioning, and family dynamics, leading to strains on the gut-brain axis and the overwhelming obesity epidemic. Through a comprehensive understanding of the vagus nerve, we also establish and define features of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder ARFID. Based on nutritional, physical, and mental health components, there are key strategies that address health disparities and the social-emotional ramifications for individuals with ARFID. Participants will further their understanding of health behavior change from a psychodynamic perspective to heal the clients food relationship.