1. Determinants of fast-food consumption. An application of the Theory of Planned Behaviour
- Author
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Dunn, Kirsten I., Mohr, Philip, Wilson, Carlene J., and Wittert, Gary A.
- Subjects
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CONVENIENCE foods , *DETERMINANTS (Mathematics) , *FOOD consumption , *STRUCTURAL equation modeling , *PREDICTION models , *RISK assessment , *OBESITY - Abstract
Abstract: This study applied and extended the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB; ) in an examination of the variables influencing fast-food consumption in an Australian sample. Four hundred and four participants responded to items measuring TPB constructs and retrospective and prospective measures of fast-food consumption. Additional independent variables included: Consideration of Future Consequences (), Fear of Negative Evaluation (), and Self-Identification as a Healthy Eater Scale (). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to examine predictors of consumption. SEM indicated that the TPB successfully predicted fast-food consumption. Factor analyses assisted in the definition of constructs that underlay attitudes towards fast foods. These constructs were included in an ‘extended’ TPB model which then provided a richer source of information regarding the nature of the variables influencing fast-food consumption. Findings suggest that fast-food consumption is influenced by specific referent groups as well as a general demand for meals that are tasty, satisfying, and convenient. These factors reflect immediate needs and appear to override concerns about longer-term health risks associated with fast food. Results are discussed in the context of possible applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2011
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