UNDERSTANDING DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES FOR SUGAR CONSUMPTION IN ADOLESCENCE

The mechanisms by which adolescents make food choices are not clear. T he interaction and combination of the many social and psychological fa ctors must be considered when examining adolescents' decision-making p rocesses for sound food choices, The aim of this investigation is to e xamine one specific food choice, namely, the use of sucrose in hot dri nks. One hundred and eighty-seven adolescents in their 16th year compl eted a questionnaire on the consumption of sugar using the method deve loped by AJZEN & FISHBEIN in their 'Theory of Reasoned Action'. The gr oup was randomly divided into two groups so that decision-making proce sses with respect to two behavioural intentions - adding sugar to tea and coffee and excluding it - could be examined. The findings suggest that the immediate pleasurable taste of sugar outweighed and deferred the recognition of dangers associated with its consumption. Past denta l health experiences, behaviours and education together with the role of parental figures acted as important influences. An awareness of the se factors should assist dental health professionals to highlight the importance of sound food choices when negotiating dental health goals with adolescents.