Abstract
BackgroundThe experience of scarcity provides an explanation for the relatively unhealthy diets of people with low income. Causal evidence for an effect of direct experiences of scarcity on eating behaviour is lacking.MethodsTwo studies (N = 81, N = 115) tested and refined a self‐developed trade‐off task, in which participants' resources were restricted (scarcity condition) or unrestricted (no‐scarcity condition), for manipulating experiences of scarcity. Two further studies (N = 95, N = 122) were performed to test whether scarcity results in greater calorie consumption from snacks and lower self‐reported self‐regulation of eating.ResultsThe scarcity manipulation appeared successful. A significant main effect of scarcity on eating was not found; however, an interaction effect between hunger and scarcity bordered on significance, such that those in the scarcity condition consumed more calories under low hunger. In the second experiment, participants were instructed to eat prior to participation to lower their hunger level. No difference between conditions was found in calorie consumption and self‐regulation of eating.ConclusionAlthough the trade‐off task appeared to evoke scarcity experiences, the present research could not support the notion that these result in unhealthier eating. A more nuanced view of the influence of scarcity on eating is needed.
Highlights
Diet-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are approaching epidemic levels in many parts of the world (Deitel, 2003; Fardet & Boirie, 2014; Wagner & Brath, 2012)
Independent t-tests showed that participants in the scarcity condition scored significantly higher than participants in the no-scarcity condition on the three scales
Our studies did not show an acute effect of experienced scarcity on caloric intake
Summary
Diet-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are approaching epidemic levels in many parts of the world (Deitel, 2003; Fardet & Boirie, 2014; Wagner & Brath, 2012). Research focused on the role of food prices and perceived affordability of healthy foods in diet quality of different income groups has shown inconsistent findings There may be other explanations for why having a low income contributes to unhealthy eating. This research focuses on a more fundamental reason for this relationship: psychological consequences of the experience of scarcity resulting from a low income. The experience of scarcity provides an explanation for the relatively unhealthy diets of people with low income. Two further studies (N = 95, N = 122) were performed to test whether scarcity results in greater calorie consumption from snacks and lower self-reported self-regulation of eating. Conclusion: the trade-off task appeared to evoke scarcity experiences, the present research could not support the notion that these result in unhealthier eating. A more nuanced view of the influence of scarcity on eating is needed
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