Enhancing Child Digital Dietary Self-Monitoring via Positive Reinforcement: Proof-of-Concept Trial.

ABSTRACT: Background/Objectives: Dietary self-monitoring (DSM) is an essential behavior change strategy in pediatric nutrition interventions, but engagement is poor. Positive reinforcement (PR) techniques are used to improve behaviors in children. This proof-of-concept trial examined the ability to implement two types of PR, caregiver praise and gamification, using a digital DSM log. Methods: Families were recruited between February and October 2024. Children aged 8-12 years (n = 19) and an adult caregiver were randomly assigned to DSM conditions with or without caregiver praise and/or gamification (2 × 2 factorial design). Children tracked intake of fruits, vegetables, sweet/salty snack foods, and sugar-sweetened beverages for 4 weeks in a digital log. Feasibility focused on ex

SUBMITTER: Leon LG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12610852 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature