A mixed-methods approach to targeting college students' dairy behaviors

摘要

Objectives: To assess dairy consumption among students and uncover female students' self-efficacy, perceived benefits and barriers of not consuming dairy, and cues that prompt behavior change. Methods: A survey (N = 6499) identified the approximate dairy servings consumed on a daily basis and 28 participants shared their perceptions of dairy foods in 3 focus groups. Results: Students do not consume enough calcium in their daily diets and do not have knowledge about serving size or the importance of dairy consumption. Conclusions: Students preferred health campaigns specific to the student population. Messages that focus on overall health and substitution of unhealthy behaviors with healthier behaviors may encourage behavior change.