Heyam F. Dalky
Maysa H. Al Momani
Taghreed Kh. Al-Drabaah
Abstract:
The study aimed to assess adolescent patterns of eating habits, determine
factors influencing these patterns, and identify male and female differences
related to eating habits. Using a cross-sectional study approach, a sample of
adolescents (N = 423) in randomly selected clusters chosen from government
and private schools in the south of Jordan completed self-administered
questionnaires relating to socio-demographic data and personal eating habits.
Results showed that parents, peers, and mass media are contributing factors,
with peer pressure likely outweighing parental guidance. Males were more
likely to be influenced by peers than females, whereas females were more
likely to be influenced by media-based advertising. Lower body mass indices
correlate with eating breakfast, which a majority of adolescents reported
they do not do. Interventions targeted toward improving eating and active
behaviors should involve peers as well as parents.