A qualitative examination of parental perceptions of eating behavior and body image issues of their adolescent children: Identifying ambivalences and contradictions.

This study explores how parents of adolescents perceive their children's eating behaviours and body image influences. Data collected through semi-structured interviews with 14 parent pairs were thematically analysed. Three themes were identified that contained ambivalences and contradictions in parents' perceptions: 1. Normalising weight loss while also questioning dieting, 2. Valorising but also criticising unrealistic beauty ideals, and 3. Pathologising the overweight seemingly only on a health basis, but also due to appearance. All themes were reflective of the influence that dominant social messages on body image have on parental perceptions, primarily sustaining problematic eating behaviours and beauty ideals. They are also illustrative of the challenges that parents face in navigating opposing societal messages about eating practices and body image, leading them to implicit and explicit ambivalences and contradictions. The implications of the findings are discussed, along with suggestions for the development of a socially sensitive and informed parent support program.