Prediction of calcium supplement use among college students: Application of the theory of reasoned action

Abstract

As part of a survey on vitamin and mineral food supplement use at Pima Community College (Tucson, AZ), 247 students were exposed to a pamphlet emphasizing the need for calcium throughout life. The Theory of Reasoned Action was then used as a model to predict intention to consume supplemental calcium. Attitudes were found to be significant predictors of behavioral intention. Normative influences (family, friends and physicians) were much less strong. The beliefs most predictive of attitude were that calcium would improve disease resistance and that it provided good value for the money. Other beliefs of importance to the students were that calcium's use was scientifically based and that it contributed to a good diet. Intention to take supplemental calcium was highly correlated with user status: food supplement users were significantly more likely than non-users to report intention to take calcium. The findings indicate the utility of theory-driven research in nutrition. Using a model such as the Theory of Reasoned Action, individual beliefs and normative influences can be identified for target populations, facilitating the development of more appropriate nutrition education materials.