Analysis of feeding with a fork for a pupil with feeding disorders

Patrycja Marcinkowska

ABSTRACT: Feeding problems are a common concern for individuals on the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related disabilities. Food selectivity, eating a limited variety of food, unwillingness to try new foods, sensory aversions, or socially inappropriate eating habits may have a negative impact not only on the individual themselves but also on their families. It may result in poor bone growth, weight loss, constipation, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and cause family stress and social exclusion. This case study presents a non-vocal pupil, aged 11, with strict rigid eating routines which, when interrupted, result in self-injurious behaviours.