Psychodynamic Treatment for Infants with Feeding Tube Dependency

ABSTRACT Over the past three decades, a dramatic increase in infants with total food aversion and a dependence on artificial feeding via tube has been reported. This condition, known as Feeding Tube Dependency, is complex, and the psychodynamics contributing to it is largely unknown. To overcome FTD and the underlying food aversion, we must gain an understanding of the motivational patterns as well as the feeding relationship. Here, we outline the psychodynamic of Feeding Tube Dependency in early childhood. Based on this research, we suggest a treatment program and provide a case example. Abbreviation: DC: 0-3R: Diagnostic Classification: 0-3 Revised; FTD: Feeding Tube Dependency; PTFD: Posttraumatic Feeding Disorder