Identifying socio-cognitive beliefs of eating in moderation in adults in the UK and Jordan

Abstract

This thesis aims to understand and influence the socio-cognitive beliefs towards moderate eating in adults in the UK and Jordan, to aid public health interventions for obesity. It begins with a systematic review identifying key factors in healthy eating habits, focusing on intrapersonal elements like self-efficacy and risk perception. The research then dives into qualitative and quantitative studies in the UK and Jordan to specifically explore beliefs about eating in moderation. It utilizes the "I-change model" as a theoretical framework. The goal is to provide tailored information for public health programs in these countries, targeting beliefs specific to their populations. The thesis concludes by discussing the contributions of each study, finding overarching themes for future research, and the importance of intervention mapping in designing effective public health programs. The thesis uncovered several key findings. In the UK and Jordan, beliefs and perceptions about healthy eating, particularly eating in moderation, varied significantly. The research highlighted the importance of socio-cognitive factors like self-efficacy and risk perception in shaping these beliefs. It also revealed cultural differences in attitudes towards obesity and eating habits. The results from both countries provided valuable insights for designing targeted public health interventions, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive approaches in promoting healthier eating habits. These findings contribute significantly to understanding the complex interplay of socio-cognitive factors in dietary behaviors.