A theory-based investigation of weight change and nutrition behaviors among college students.

This research targeted the weight and nutrition behaviors of college students to help tailor marketing and educational strategies to engage more students in healthy behaviors. The purpose of this study was to examine weight change and nutrition behaviors of college students using SCT constructs, specifically environment, situation, and self-efficacy. A secondary aim of this study was to examine the differences by gender and between class years (1st year, 2nd year, 3rd year, and 4th year or greater). Data of interest was collected via a classroom based self-report assessment instrument and objective height and weight measures. Male and female college students were recruited for participation in this study. The results indicate the utility of the SCT in examining the weight change and nutrition behaviors among college students. The results also suggest that there are some differences in the weight change and nutrition behaviors of college students between class years and gender.M.P.H