The Powerful Influence of Parents

by Valorie Delp | More from this Blogger

17 Feb 2007 01:37 PM

A recent study has shed some light on some risk factors for eating disorders. The study is significant for two reasons. First, it is one of the few studies on the subject that follows children from birth to age 11. Secondly, it is one of the only studies of its kind that focuses on dad's role in the development of an eating disorder.

An estimated 6 million people suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder. Approximately 10% of these sufferers are young women. Because eating disorders cause other complications it is difficult to give a statistic on morbidity rates, however, an estimated 15% of eating disorder cases result indirectly in death.

Dads are important influences on a young girl's perception of her weight and body shape even in early childhood. The study showed that Dads, especially those who were overweight and wanting to be thinner, had a powerful impact on a young girl's self image. In accordance with the results of this study, researchers are pushing for intervention programs that target young girls.

So now you're wondering what this has to do with babies, right? Consider these lessons gleaned from this study:

#1. We parents exude a powerful influence over our little ones. When we think they don't or can't understand, they do. Every sound, every conversation, every sight, and every habit is carefully engrained. Remember, this study was done from birth. There's a lot of learning that occurs in between the time they're born and the time that they can actually tell us what they've learned.

#2. It is easier to form good habits than it is to break bad ones. It's not just about offering vegetables before fruits or making sure that your little one cleans up his entire plate. It is about teaching good exercise habits as well.

#3. We communicate our values to our little ones constantly from early on. If you're concerned about your weight and trying to get thin, it is only natural to assume that your little one will pick up on this and idolize "thinness". Instead, it is better to value a healthy lifestyle so that your little one will strive towards that rather than a potentially unattainable body.

#4. We should never underestimate the power of a daddy in his little girl's life. I may be the one who stays home and takes care of the kids but my husband's influence over their lives is profound.

Another blog to check out is: Is Your Baby Mentally Stable?

Learn more about Valorie Delp

Hello everybody! My name is Valorie and I am one busy lady! When I'm not writing or editing for families, I am busy trying to get my brood of 5 in line.

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Jeff Bogle (1022) 17 Feb 2007 04:12 PM

I could not agree more. I am reading an amazing book called Dad's and Daughters that addresses a father's vital role in raising a confident, bold and healthy young woman. Part of my drive to drop pounds (which I am documenting here on Families.com under the Dad's Losing It heading) is to be a good example of someone who makes good choices in life and cares about being around to watch her grow up. We also have family meals every night of the week and cook with her. Food is so much more important than just satisfying hunger, it can bring people (dad and daughter in my case) together as we cook, bake and crack eggs. Being together in the kitchen teaches about self-sufficiency , raises self-esteem and promotes independence.

Great blog. Thanks!

Valorie Delp (49340) 18 Feb 2007 06:02 AM

Thanks! No one eats when my dh goes into the kitchen!!! It's not usually a pretty sight! ;-)