Adolescents’ perception of dietary behaviour in a public school in Chile: a focus groups study

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess dietary behavior among sixth- to eighth-grade students to inform the delivery and content of nutrition education. This was a qualitative study through focus groups. Subjects were 57 adolescents 10–14 years old, 30 males and 27 females distributed in six groups. To compare group responses, transcriptions were coded using the original question guide. The information was analyzed using the content analysis technique. The main findings showed that adolescents knew dietary guidelines, but they consumed non-healthy food. They liked to cook but preferred fast food preparations. They increased fast food consumption on weekends and with friends. In utilization of Information Communication Technologies (ICT), all students had access to technology through mobile phones, tablets and computers and were open to have an interactive program with personal information about diet and behavior. Adolescents dietary behavior is not healthy and can be changed with interactive programs considering participation, personal information and utilizing ICT.