Understanding Factors that Influence Parents’ Provision of Beverages to Their Children: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis

Abstract

Objective

Understand parental perceptions of beverages and factors influencing the beverage choices they make for their children.

Data Source

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

Included studies contained qualitative data examining parents’ perceptions of beverages or factors that influence their child’s beverage consumption, were conducted in the United States between 2000 and 2022, written in English, and enrolled parents of children aged 18 years or younger.

Data Extraction

Authors, titles, study aims, methods, qualitative results, and representative quotations were extracted using Covidence.

Data Synthesis

Qualitative findings were independently coded by two coders. Codes were compared and discrepancies resolved through discussion with a third team member. Themes and sub-themes were identified, and representative quotations selected.

Results

13 studies met inclusion criteria. Five major themes emerged: 1) factors that influence parents’ provision of beverages to their children, 2) parents’ concerns about sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), 3) barriers to limiting children’s SSB consumption, 4) strategies to lower children’s SSB consumption, and 5) parents’ perceptions of beverage healthfulness.

Conclusion

Though most parents are aware of unfavorable health effects of frequent SSB intake, environmental and sociocultural factors pose barriers to limiting their child’s SSB consumption. Changes to policy and the food environment are needed to initiate and sustain reductions in SSB intake, along with continued nutrition education efforts.