History of Eating and Drinking Patterns of Children with Nephrotic Syndrome Associated with Parenting Style and Parental Knowledge

Abstract

Background and Objective: The number of children with nephrotic syndrome has increased. Unhealthy eating patterns in children can cause serious health problems. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between parental knowledge and parenting style in relation to children’s eating and drinking patterns, particularly focusing on children with nephrotic syndrome. Materials and Methods: This was a correlational study with a cross-sectional approach. The population in this study totaled 204 mothers of children with nephrotic syndrome in both the outpatient unit and inpatient care. Through consecutive sampling, 115 respondents met the inclusion criteria. Data collection was conducted using the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire-Short Form (PSDQ), a knowledge questionnaire and an examination of the children's diet. Results: The results showed that most children (40%) consumed fast food as often as 2-3x/week and that 14.7% of the children consumed fast food every day. As many as 26.9% of the children consumed energy drinks every day. Conclusion: Democratic parenting can be a good choice because it pays attention to and respects children's freedom but the freedom should not be absolute as the parents must provide understanding and guidance.