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

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.