Background/Purpose Research suggests that ethnic minorities may have different health behaviors because of their cultural values (Nehl, et al., 2009). The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB; Ajzen & Fishbein, 1980) suggests that behavior is predicted by intention, which is in turn influenced by attitude, subjective norms, and perceived control. Ethnic minorities may behave similarly as Caucasians, but their attitude, norms, or control may differ. The aim was to determine if the TPB will provide insight into the influences of culture on diet between Hawaiian college students and mainland students.
Method Students were recruited via email from colleges in Oregon and Hawaii and were grouped as 1. students from and studying in Hawaii (n=143), 2. Hawaiian students at mainland schools (n=107), and 3. mainland students studying in mainland schools (n=103). Self-reported data was collected online with validated measures of diet, TPB components, and culture.
Analysis/Results There was no difference across groups for dietary behaviors. Mainland students had greater intention to (F(2,350) = 4.74, p=0.01) and attitude towards (F(2,350) = 02.94, p=0.05) eating healthy compared to the two other groups. They also had higher levels of perceived control in eating healthy (F(2,350) = 5.01, p< 0.00) than Hawaiian students educated on the mainland. Both groups of Hawaiian students had higher measures of collectivism.
Conclusions College students tend to eat a relatively lowfat diet. Hawaii students on the mainland experience additional stressors that may reduce their intention and belief to eat well. Interventions may focus on increasing social support for healthier diets in Hawaiian students.
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