Abstract

RAMALHO, Vera Lúcia Moreira  and  RIBEIRO, António Miguel Pereira. A cognitive-behavioural intervention in a child with feeding problems: Peter discovered that he enjoys eating. Estud. psicol. (Natal) [online]. 2008, vol.13, n.3, pp. 195-201. ISSN 1413-294X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S1413-294X2008000300002.

This case study aims to describe an intervention with a 7-years-old child with feeding problems: Pedro refused to eat any solid food since he was a baby. The intervention was based on cognitive-behavioural principles and included parental training and exposure to the avoided aliments followed by positive reinforcement. In the final stage, however, the intervention was inspired by the narrative therapy, in order to consolidate the change. This phase included elaboration of unique outcomes and social validation of the change. The child's feeding behaviour considerably improved throughout the 13 sessions. The positive changes have been maintained until the last follow-up session, 6 months after de finalization.

Keywords : feeding problems; childhood; cognitive-behavioural intervention; narrative cognitive therapy.