The constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior, attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control, were assessed to determine the predictors of low-fat milk and regular soda consumption. A cross-sectional design with group-administered questionnaires was used. A total of 756 public high school female adolescents, aged 13 to 18 years, participated in this study between February 1999 and March 1999. The ethnic composition was 53.3% White/Anglo Americans, 19.3% Hispanics or Latinos and 10.2% Black/African Americans. Most participants (89.6%, n=636) reported that they currently drink milk; 64.3% (n=456) of all participants reported drinking reduced-fat milk and nonfat milk. 53.6% reported drinking one glass of milk or less per day during the last year. Taste and possible health benefits were the primary predictors of attitude; parents’ opinions predicted subjective norm; and availability of low-fat milk at home, school and in vending machines predicted perceived control. Most participants 96.3% (n=681) reported that they currently drink soda; 84.3% (n=596) reported drinking regular soda. 50.1% reported drinking two glasses of soda or more per day during the past year. Of those who drank soda, 68.1% drank cola. Enjoyment of taste, quenching of thirst, becoming hyper or having a sugar rush, and feeling healthy predicted a positive attitude towards drinking regular soda. Parents and friends predicted subjective norm, while availability of regular soda at home predicted perceived behavioral control. These findings suggest points of intervention in increasing low-fat milk consumption and decreasing regular soda consumption among female adolescents.
Learning Objectives: 1. At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to identify factors that influence low-fat milk consumption among female adolescents. 2. At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to identify factors that influence regular soda consumption among female adolescents.
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Nutrition
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.