Investigating fruit and vegetable consumption using the transtheoretical model.
OBJECTIVE
Test the applicability of the transtheoretical model (TTM) to adult fruit/vegetable consumption.


METHODS
Cross-sectional random-digit dial survey.


METHODS
Hawaii.


METHODS
700 (62.6% female; age [mean +/- SD], 47 +/- 17.1 years; education [mean +/- SD], 14.6 +/- 2.8 years; 35.0% white, 31.1% Asian, 22.1% native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, 11.8% other).


METHODS
Stages, processes, self-efficacy, decisional balance, and self-reported fruit/vegetable consumption.


METHODS
Confirmatory factor analysis tested the factor structure. Analyses of variance were used to explore stage differences in constructs.


RESULTS
Stage distribution was precontemplation (33%), contemplation (4%), preparation (37%), action (3%), and maintenance (23%). A 10-factor process model with two higher-order correlated factors (experiential and behavioral) provided the best data fit (chi2 = 1446.12; df = 366; p < .0001; comparative fit index [CFI] = .89; standardized root mean square residual [SRMR] = .05). The self-efficacy structure fit the data well (chi 2 = 81.86; df = 9; p < .0001; CFI = .94; SRMR = .04), as did the decisional balance structure (chi2 = 37.42; df = 19; p = .007; CFI = .99; SRMR = .02). Processes, self-efficacy, decisional balance, and fruit/vegetable consumption behavior differed significantly by stage, with medium effect sizes for most variables.


CONCLUSIONS
The variables revealed adequate fit to the theorized measurement models. TTM predictions regarding stage differences in self-efficacy, pros and cons, and fruit/vegetable consumption were confirmed; however, most experiential and behavioral processes increased in the early stages and then leveled off.
Horwath
Caroline C
CC
Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Nigg
Claudio R
CR
Motl
Rob W
RW
Wong
Kristen T
KT
Dishman
Rod K
RK
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D005518:Food Preferences; D005638:Fruit; D006254:Hawaii; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012106:Research; D020377:Self Efficacy; D014675:Vegetables