Hi, Lisa: Failure to Thrive (FTT) is a very complex issue with a strong
psychological component to it.  Eating in general, for adults, children and
infants alike, is a very emotional, psychological activity.  I like to say
(jokingly) that I do what I do for a living because, to me, food is sacred
and eating is a religion and I want to make sure that the baby gets off to
a good start in the enjoyment of food.  The act of breastfeeding is really
only a tiny bit about the nutritional aspect, and almost completely about
the psychological aspect.  I tell moms - "Breastfeeding is up in your head
and the baby's head.  It's not really about the food, like bottlefeeding
is."  Artificial feeding focuses solely on the food and whether the baby is
getting enough.
Here in the US, there are whole TV shows based solely on food - how to buy
it, how to cook it, how to "plate" it, how to entertain with it.  Here in
America, we worship food.  Throughout history, people have also used foods
for currency.
Look in the therapy literature as well as in the psychology literature for
more on FTT.  It's quite fascinating.

Pam Hirsch, RN,BSN,CLC
Clinical Lead, Lactation Services
Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital
Barrington, IL   USA

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