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The interplay between social and food environments on UK adolescents’ food choices: Implications for policy
Both social and food environments play a crucial role in shaping adolescents’ food choices, often in ways distinct from childhood experiences. While research indicates that these environments independently influence eating behaviors, little is known about how their interaction impacts adolescent diets. A more thorough comprehension of this link may aid in the development of more focused treatments and regulations.
Understanding Adolescents’ Preferences in Social and Food Environments
In this qualitative study by Shaw et al. (2023), 45 teenagers (ages 11–18) from secondary schools and colleges in England, UK participated in 13 online focus groups. The data was interpreted using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that social interactions around eating were more significant to adolescents than the food itself, with fast-food outlets serving as ideal spaces for socializing. Participants preferred to spend their money on foods they deemed valuable, though affordability was not always the determining factor. Adolescents favored quick and effortless food decisions, often influenced by prominent placement and eye-catching promotions. They appreciated chain food outlets for their consistency and familiarity, which simplified decision-making. A strong sense of autonomy was evident throughout, as participants expressed limited opportunities to make independent food choices and resisted spending their money on unappealing “healthy” foods. For interventions and policies to be effective, they must align with adolescents’ perspectives and values regarding food choices, ensuring they resonate with this critical age group. [NPID: Adolescents, food environments, social environments, food choice, qualitative research]
Year: 2023
