Date Available
4-23-2015
Year of Publication
2015
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
College
Communication and Information
Department/School/Program
Communication
Advisor
Dr. Donald Helme
Abstract
Research is necessary to uncover ways to improve adolescent nutrition and reduce obesity rates, particularly in the Appalachian region, which has high rates of food insecurity and adolescent obesity. The current study examines rural cultural norms about food, memorable messages adolescents received about nutrition, and the sources of identified memorable messages. Adolescents shared memorable messages during comprehensive, semi-structured, small group interviews in which participants revealed their individual experiences. Thematic framework analysis is used to present the range and nature of memorable messages about nutrition and to develop strategies for future health campaigns and interventions. This qualitative method of sequential inductive analysis provides transparency of data and resulting interpretations through thematic identification and indexing. Analysis revealed themes of messages that featured critical pieces of the rule-structure of memorable messages – specifically, adherence and consequence regarding nutritional behaviors. Prominent memorable messages of adherence included topics of balance (e.g., MyPlate), type (e.g., junk food), and timing (e.g., “don’t eat after 7 p.m.”). Messages with elements of consequence included communication of short-term (e.g., “breakfast gets your blood flowing) and long-term consequence (e.g., obesity, etc.). Adolescents identified family members, educators, and media as salient sources of memorable messages.
Recommended Citation
Bachman, Audrey S., "Adolescent Perceptions of Nutrition: Identifying Memorable Messages" (2015). Theses and Dissertations--Communication. 41.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/comm_etds/41
- Usage
- Downloads: 233
- Abstract Views: 114