Processes of change for increasing fruit and vegetable consumption among economically disadvantaged African American adolescents

This study sought to identify Transtheoretical Model processes of change associated with consumption of ≥ 5 daily servings of FVs in a sample of economically disadvantaged African American adolescents (N = 549; mean (SD) age = 12.44 (.99) years; 61% female; 15% African American Hispanic). Participants completed measures of stages and processes of change, and were ranked according to intake level based on their reported stage. Spearman correlations and independent samples t tests were used in cross-sectional analyses of the relationship between processes of change and FV consumption. Consciousness raising, environmental reevaluation, helping relationships and stimulus control processes were significantly associated with FV consumption (ρ ≥ .12; p < .01), and were practiced more often by youths who consumed ≥ 5 daily servings of FVs relative to those who did not (p < .05). Findings highlight the potential of these processes for increasing FV consumption in this population.

► Processes of change (POC) is the least researched Transtheoretical Model construct.
► Relationships between POC and fruit and vegetable consumption were examined.
► Among African American adolescents, associations with four POC were found.
► Promoting these processes may aid in increasing intake in this population.