The representation of the family meal in the obese child

The aim of our study is to investigate the perception of the family meal in obese children aged 6 to 10 years. We assume that the obese child sees the family meal as a privileged way to bring the family together; that for him food replaces the expression of emotions; and finally that he sees the family meal as an obligation to follow dietary rules. We received 12 obese children with one or two of their parents. The children coming from all social backgrounds were followed at the hospital on a quarterly basis for the management of their obesity. The study consisted of a semi-structured interview with the parents presentation of CAT and FAT charts. In addition the children were asked to draw themselves as they saw themselves; and to draw a family meal.