Examining the intention-behavior gap: The impact of the food environment on the eating behaviors of low-income African American women

<p>The current study investigated environmental barriers to the intention-behavior gap. The food environment was examined as a moderator between motivation for healthy living and actual eating behavior. A sample of 55 low-income African American women (<em>M_age</em> = 30.25, <em>SD</em> = 7.46) completed self-report motivation and eating behavior questionnaires. The food environment was measured by the number and proportion of healthy and unhealthy food retailers in one’s neighborhood using ArcGIS mapping software. The results showed that greater motivation was associated with less unhealthy eating when there was relatively equal access to nearby unhealthy and healthy food retailers. When given both options, in the context of high motivation, individuals may be more likely to decline unhealthy foods consisting of high amounts of oils, fats, and sugars. A combination of motivational interventions and innovative food policy and urban planning initiatives may be needed to promote healthier communities.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MS)

Level thesis:degree_level

Open Access Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Psychology

Year dc:date.available

2022

Author dc:creator

• Glownia, Karen

Contributors dc:contributor

• Heather Janisse, Ph.D., Chair
• Karen Saules, Ph.D.
• Stephen Jefferson, Ph.D.

• Clinical Psychology

Repository record dc:identifier

https://commons.emich.edu/theses/1162

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:commons.emich.edu:theses-2534