Abstract:
The traditional role of speech-language therapists as feeding specialists appears
to have focused primarily on the mechanics of feeding disorders, without fully
considering the impact of nutritional needs on a child's development and
communication. The aim of the study was to investigate the experiences and
perceptions of a group of speech-language therapists regarding nutritional issues
in children requiring feeding therapy or early communication intervention. A
qualitative research design was employed in the form of a descriptive survey and
a questionnaire was compiled as the data collection instrument. Forty-nine
questionnaires were delivered to speech-language therapists within the
Johannesburg and Pretoria geographical areas, of which 32 were suitable for
analysis. Closed ended questions were analyzed quantitatively using descriptive
statistics while responses to open-ended questions were categorized
thematically. Results indicated that all respondents came into contact with clients
who had, or who were at risk for, feeding disorders and nutritional deficiencies.
However, findings revealed that during assessment and treatment of these
clients, respondents tended to neglect issues related to nutrition, as well as
psychosocial issues pertinent to feeding disorders. Furthermore, respondents
appeared not to have fully realized the importance of their role as
communication specialists within the feeding context. It was found that the majority of respondents were involved within a multidisciplinary team approach;
however, the application of the more effective transdisciplinary approach was
limited. This was confirmed by results revealing that collaboration with other
professionals, such as dieticians, did not consistently occur. In terms of training,
it was evident that respondents received the majority of their training in feeding
therapy from continued education, which included aspects of nutrition. However,
undergraduate training was perceived as having limitations within the theoretical
content as well as practical application, and did not incorporate nutritional
aspects. In light of the apparent need for a more holistic view of paediatric
clients with feeding disorders, suggestions were made regarding the inclusion of
vital nutritional issues and psychosocial factors within training and
transdisciplinary service delivery in South Africa. Furthermore, relevant research
topics within the field of paediatric feeding were presented. Broadening
perspectives by means of holistic research and training may enhance service
delivery to children with paediatric feeding disorders.
