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Descriptive peer norms, self-control and dietary behaviour in young adults
Since perceived peer eating norms have been shown to influence dietary behaviour, this 2016 study investigated whether certain personality traits are linked with leading eating habits similar to perceived peer eating habits. One thousand and fifty-six young adults were asked about their perceptions on the level of sugar-sweetened soda (SSS) and sweet pastries (SP) consumed by their peers. The participants also reported their own intakes of these foods and drinks. Perceived peer eating norms for both sugar-sweetened soda and sweet pastries predicted frequency of consumption. Having a belief that peers were frequently consuming SSS and SP was associated with elevated personal consumption of both. Those with low self-control, compared with high self-control, were more likely to adhere to peer norms for SP, but not for SSS. But trait social acceptance needs did not significantly moderate similarity between peer norms and personal consumption for either SSS or SP. Robinson et al. (2016) conclude that the degree to which young adults adhere to descriptive peer dietary norms may depend on their self-control, meaning that those with low self-control may be less able to block out social influence of peer norms on dietary behavior. [NPID: psychosocial, personality traits, perceived peer habits, peer pressure, sugar-sweetened soda, sweet pastries, self-control, social acceptance, peer norms]
Year: 2016
