Advertising influences our attitudes to food. A study by Lowe et al showed children videos of older “food dudes” eating foods enthusiastically, that kids would not normally eat. By watching the food dudes, there was a significant change in the children’s attitude to the food and it specifically led to an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption. To support this, another study by Tapper et al also used the “food dudes” and encouraged children repeatedly to eat the “right foods” and stickers were given if they did. The consumption of the foods went up at school and at home, and these changes lasted at least 15 months so was quite long-term.
Social Learning is a factor that influences our attitudes to food, either learning through our parents or peers. A study by Ogden found a significant correlation between the diets of mothers and children. This is supported Brown & Ogdens study which found consistent correlations between parents and children in terms of snack food intake, eating motivations, and body dissatisfaction. Social learning through peers is shown by a study by Birch et al, who sat children next to other children at lunch who preferred a different vegetable to them. After 4 days their preferences to that vegetable had changed and remained changed after a 6 week follow up. Furthermore a study by Meyer & Gast surveyed 10-12 year old children and found a significant positive correlation between peer attitudes and eating patterns.
Another factor that influences our attitudes to food is our mood. It is seen that we show more arousal and irritability when were hungry, and are calmer, sleepier, and have more pleasurable feelings after eating. Benton supports this and claims sweet tastes often have a calming effect on babies.
The issue of Nature vs. Nurture should be considered in our attitudes to food. A study by Skinner claims up to the age of 3-4 years, food...
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