Actually it could be a large step in the right direction. Young Balls can't go too long without food, at least not like an older Ball with some weight. It's quite possible that they can die without ever taking a bite, so assist or force feeding is definitely necessary in certain situations.
I had to assist feed two baby Balls this year after they refused for several weeks. I'm sure it was very stressful for them, but they received the nutrients that they needed and both of them took meals on their own after that without any problems. I think sometimes baby Balls just have to learn how to eat even if that means being assisted for that first meal.