"That's the routine": a qualitative exploration of mealtime screen use in lower educated Australian families with young children.

Background. Family meals are an opportune context for initiating healthy eating habits in young children. However, using screens at family mealtimes may negate some of the associated nutritional and social benefits. In High Income countries, frequent mealtime screen use is common, particularly in families of low socioeconomic position (SEP). This study aimed to explore experiences and acceptability of mealtime screen use in families of low SEP with young children. Methods. Qualitative interviews with 25 mothers of low SEP were conducted via telephone or Zoom^TM using Photo Interviewing and a semi-structured interview script. Transcripts were analysed thematically using a Constructivist paradigm. Results. Many parents reported an eagerness for reducing family mealtime screen use. Three major themes were identified in explaining the reasons behind levels of engagement in family mealtime screen use. These included parental self-efficacy, such as parental confidence in saying no to screens at mealtimes, physical resources such as...