"Voice of Children": Qualitative analysis of children's interpretations regarding nutritional behaviour

Abstract

Background: Understanding opinions, attitudes and knowledge of schoolchildren regarding eating habits is essential to develop effective preventive measures in this target group. Objective: The aim of the study was to find opinions and attitudes of schoolchildren regarding nutrition and related behaviour. Methods: Data were collected in selected elementary schools from April to June 2015. Pupils of 5th (7 girls, 7 boys), 7th (4 girls, 4 boys) and 9th (8 girls, 10 boys) grades debated their opinions and attitudes regarding eating habits during sessions in classrooms and recorded them into worksheets. Qualitative content analysis of the obtained data was performed. Results: Pupils expressed adequate knowledge on healthy eating habits. Attractiveness of sweets is much stronger in comparison to fruits and vegetables. 11 years olds complained about absence of their parents during family mealtime. The main reasons for drinking soft and energy drinks included taste and social motives. Girls were concerned about their body image and mentioned vomiting as a method to reduce body weight. Conclusions: Children possess general principles of healthy eating habits, but they do not implement them in their life. Prevention in nutrition to avoid social-health problems related to unhealthy diet, particularly obesity, should be focused both on children and their parents as role models in development of eating habits.