Improving Fruit and Vegetable Intake Among Children

Application of the Social Cognitive Theory

Abstract

Objectives of this review are to identify effective factors of interventions using the Social Cognitive Theory to increase fruit and vegetable (FV) intake among children and to develop strategies for program development based on the interventions reviewed. Articles were obtained from multiple databases; study inclusion criteria were publication in years 1998-2008 and utilization of Social Cognitive Theory to increase FV intake among children primarily 6-11 years old. Creative informational components delivered in non-traditional fashions, inclusion of role-models, and promotion of activities for bolstering self-management skills and self-efficacy were often incorporated in interventions. FV intake programs were child-focused, multi-component interventions utilizing SCT; such interventions have been modestly successful in increasing FV intake among children.