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Effect of a television programme on nutrition cognitions and intended behaviours

2010; Wiley; Volume: 67; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1111/j.1747-0080.2010.01446.x

1839-3322

Carol Byrd‐Bredbenner, A. Grenci, Virginia Quick,

Child Development and Digital Technology

Abstract Aim: The present study examined the effect of nutrition‐related information in the Lisa the Vegetarian episode from the prime‐time television series The Simpsons on children's nutrition cognitions and intended behaviours. This episode was chosen because its storyline is rich in nutrition‐related information. Methods: The sample was girls aged 9 and 10 years from New Jersey in the USA who were assigned to either the treatment group (n = 34) or control (n = 37). At the pretest, both study groups completed a self‐administered questionnaire that measured nutrition cognitions (knowledge, outcome expectations, attitude and perceived norms) conveyed in the programme and intended behaviours related to vegetarianism. At the post‐test, administered 7 to 14 days later, the control group again completed the questionnaire. The treatment group viewed the television programme and completed the questionnaire. At the follow‐up post‐test, administered 7 to 14 days after the post‐test, both groups again completed the questionnaire. Results: Analysis of covariance, with pretest score as the covariate, revealed that the treatment group mean post‐test and follow‐up post‐test knowledge and intended behaviour scores were significantly more positive and attitude scores were significantly more negative than the control group. Conclusion: Study findings indicate that television programmes must be recognised as an important vehicle for conveying nutrition‐related information that affects children's cognitions and intended behaviours.