ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses feeding difficulties in the context of paediatric care, within the discipline of paediatric psychology. It highlights acknowledging the unique abilities and roles of all members of the treatment team, including the child, family and health professionals. The chapter discusses the psychological issues associated with and approaches to managing feeding problems in children with chronic illnesses. It focuses on both theoretical and practical applications of research in an attempt to provide a working definition of a feeding problem. Specific feeding issues are considered in children with a range of chronic conditions, along with factors associated with them. The chapter examines research evidence and the theoretical base informing assessment and interventions and focuses on some specific problem areas of everyday practice, before making recommendations for intervention and good practice. Overt malnutrition is often found in children with cancer. The total prevalence of children with chronic conditions is estimated at around 10%.
