254459 Employment of the theory of planned behavior to describe dietary behavior patterns of young adults

Tuesday, October 30, 2012 : 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM

Brandi Niemeier, PhD , Department of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Coaching, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Whitewater, WI
Although the theory of planned behavior (TPB) does not attempt to account for all psychological complexities that influence behaviors, it does provide a foundational basis for predicting health-related intentions and behavior patterns. The aim of this study was to employ the TPB constructs (attitudes, norms, behavioral control, and intentions) to help describe dietary behaviors of young adults (aged 18 to 25). Following an examination of current literature, a total of 151 young adults and their parents were recruited and completed a series of questionnaires. Significant parental influences emerged and, along with the theory's constructs, helped describe the origination of dietary behavior patterns of the young adult participants. In addition, it was noted that, while living in the same households of their parents, children are subject to their parents' constructs, and control over their own dietary behaviors is limited. It was also evident that children become vulnerable to developing their own behavior patterns according to their parents' behaviors and parenting styles, and those patterns continue into or emerge during a time when they no longer live with their parents. It is implicit that individuals' TPB constructs are learned or are otherwise inherited, and this study demonstrates the contribution of parents' behaviors on the development of their young adult children's dietary behaviors. This renewed perspective of the theory of planned behavior promotes a clear understanding of health behavior influences and supports interventions that aim to influence dietary and other weight-related health behavior patterns of all age groups.

Learning Areas:
Chronic disease management and prevention
Other professions or practice related to public health
Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs
Public health or related education
Public health or related research
Social and behavioral sciences

Learning Objectives:
Describe the theory of planned behavior. Identify influences on the theory's constructs. Discuss how the theory helps predict specific health behaviors.

Keywords: Theory, Health Behavior

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have been the author or co-author of multiple peer-reviewed articles and presentations that focus on child weight-related health behaviors and behavior development. I am an assistant professor in health promotion at UWW. My research responsibilities center around health behavior development and related health promotion efforts. My teaching responsibilities include health promotion strategies, health education, application of public health and health behavior theories, and related topics. Service activities include participation and leadership in many programs.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.