Vol. 12, Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
Vijayalakshmi D and Mrunal D Barbhai

Abstract:
Rapid growth and development during transition period of adolescence requires a stronger foundation of healthy eating habits. Apart from understanding the direct food intake patterns of adolescents, it is vital to be aware of other factors like body perception, sleeping pattern, aspirations, screen time, series watched, social and psychological environment contributing towards formation of food behaviors and consumption patterns. Thus, the present study was conducted to documents data on selected life-style parameters from physical, social and psychological aspects that influence adolescents’ food habits. The data was collected by survey method using a pre-tested questionnaire from 300 respondents. It was observed from the present study that self-assessment of body image was significantly associated (p<0.05) to area and not gender with more rural respondents perceiving themselves as underweight than peri-urban and urban adolescents. The influence of social media was observed on decisions regarding gaining and losing weight in adolescents. It was also observed that gender and area significantly influenced role model and aspirations with maximum respondents aspiring to become scientist, teacher, celebrity or pilot. Thus, the present research concluded that understanding all these factors can assist in developing tailored nutritional interventions to promote healthy eating habits amongst adolescents.