Higher Education: the role of Psychology in the Formation of the Nutritionist

Abstract

Objective: To identify the contents of psychology that are covered in undergraduate courses in nutrition and the importance attributed to them by nutritionists. Material and Methods: A total of 60 nutritionists of a city in the interior of Sao Paulo were interviewed about contents of psychology in their undergraduate courses and the need for such knowledge to professional practice. Then we proceeded with the quantitative and qualitative analysis of the information. Results: 71.7% of the participants had only one discipline of psychology in their course and 64.4% reported that it was important to their training. Development (41.0%) and interpersonal relationships (35.9%) were the predominant issues. The professionals’ speeches have brought to light to four themes: 1) relationship between Nutrition and Psychology; 2) assessment of psychology disciplines; 3) need for training after graduation; and 4) the presence of psychology in the nutritionist’s performance. Of particular note are the speeches on the need for such knowledge for the professional performance. Conclusion: The curricula of the courses still have deficiencies regarding this subject, despite the fact that professionals stress the importance of the issue to their professional practice. DESCRIPTORS Higher Education. Nutrition. Psychology.