Applying the Theory of Planned Behavior to healthy eating behaviors in urban Native American youth
2006

Healthy Eating Behaviors in Urban Native American Youth

Sample size: 139 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Stefanie A Fila, Chery Smith

Primary Institution: University of Minnesota

Hypothesis

The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) can predict healthy eating behavior in urban Native American youth.

Conclusion

The study found that intention does not directly influence healthy eating behavior, suggesting that other factors are more significant in driving these behaviors.

Supporting Evidence

  • Healthy eating behavior was correlated with barriers, attitude, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norm.
  • Boys' eating behavior was most predicted by subjective norm, while girls' eating behavior was most predicted by barriers.
  • Programs promoting healthy eating should focus on making healthy foods more appealing to youth.

Takeaway

This study looked at why Native American kids in the city eat the way they do and found that things like family and food availability matter more than just wanting to eat healthy.

Methodology

Participants completed a self-administered survey assessing eating behavior and related constructs of the TPB, along with anthropometric measurements.

Potential Biases

Self-reported eating behavior could introduce inaccuracies.

Limitations

The study only examined a sample of urban Native American youth, which may not represent all urban Native American youth.

Participant Demographics

Participants were 139 urban Native American youth, predominantly from Ojibwe and Lakota tribes, aged 9-18 years.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1479-5868-3-11

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