Initiation and sustenance of small portion size consumption behavior in rural Appalachia, USA: Application of multi-theory model (MTM)
Introduction: About 81% counties of the central Appalachia in USA are experiencing the nation’s highest obesity rates. It is generally accepted that the consumption of large food portion sizes is associated with obesity which in turn is related to the etiopathogenesis of several chronic diseases. De...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Edizioni FS
2019-03-01
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| Series: | Journal of Health and Social Sciences |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://journalhss.com/wp-content/uploads/jhss41_85-100.pdf |
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| Summary: | Introduction: About 81% counties of the central Appalachia in USA are experiencing the nation’s highest obesity rates. It is generally accepted that the consumption of large food portion sizes is associated with obesity which in turn is related to the etiopathogenesis of several chronic diseases. Developing consumption of small portion size behavior can address obesity and related consequences. This study aimed to assess the likelihood of initiation and sustenance of small portion size consumption behavior based on application of multi-theory model (MTM) among residents from rural Appalachia.
Methods: The study utilized a cross-sectional research design (n = 156). A previously validated Multitheory Model for Small Portion Size (MTM-SPS) questionnaire with acceptable reliability and validity for food portion size consumption behavior was adapted and used for data collection. Six counties of the rural Appalachian region of Kentucky defined as distressed, at risk, and transitional on socio-economic indicators by the Appalachians Research Commission (ARC) were selected for data collection. Stepwise multiple regression modeling was applied to predict the likelihood of initiation and sustenance of small portion size consumption behavior.
Results: Stepwise multiple regression demonstrated that initiation of small portion size consumption was explained by participatory dialogue (advantages outweighing disadvantages), behavioral confidence, and changes in physical environment (R2 = 47.9%, P < 0.001) and continuation of behavior by emotional transformation and practices for change (R2 = 40.2%, P < 0.001). Sociodemographic factors including age, gender, education, and ethnicity did not significantly contribute towards initiation and sustenance of small portion size consumption behavior in rural Appalachia (P > 0.05).
Conclusion: The MTM was found to be a useful theoretical framework that has the ability to predict initiation and sustenance of small portion size consumption. Findings of this study can be considered for designing an appropriate intervention in rural Appalachia. |
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| ISSN: | 2499-2240 2499-5886 |