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Published on: July 29, 2020
Perceived eating norms and vegetable consumption in children
Maxine Sharps1, Eric Robinson2
1Psychological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Liverpool, L69 7ZA, UK. maxine.sharps@liverpool.ac.uk.
Young children’s vegetable intake increased when they believed peers ate more carrots. This study shows perceived eating norms influence children’s eating habits, suggesting potential for promoting healthy diets.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Nutritional Science
- Social Influence
Background:
- Perceived eating norms influence adult eating behavior.
- Limited research exists on perceived eating norms' impact on young children's eating habits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if perceived eating norms affect vegetable intake in children.
- To determine if children's eating behavior is influenced by peer consumption data.
Main Methods:
- A between-subjects experiment was conducted with 143 children aged 6-11 years.
- Children were exposed to varying information about peer carrot consumption (high, none, or control).
Main Results:
- Children consumed significantly more carrots when told peers ate a lot.
- This effect was observed compared to conditions where peers ate no carrots or control information was provided.
Conclusions:
- Perceived eating norms can positively influence children's vegetable intake.
- Utilizing eating norms may be a viable strategy for promoting healthier eating patterns in children.
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