The role of the temporal environment in shaping Dominican women's food routines in New York City and the Santo Domingo, D.R.

Abstract

In the US, foreign born individuals adopt food behaviors that are associated with higher risk of chronic disease. However, the mechanism of change in food behaviors is not well understood. The purpose of this research was to explore food behaviors in Dominican women living in New York City (NYC) and Santo Domingo (SD) in order to better understand the process of change. Qualitative interviews addressed social, cultural, environmental and personal influences on food behavior in twelve Dominican women. Study findings revealed that women constructed food routines that characterized the way in which they procured, prepared and consumed food. Household temporal environment, which is the perceived time available to procure, prepare and consume food, shaped food routines. In SD, the day was structured around the main meal, allowing for a leisurely food routine. In NYC, temporal environment varied and women developed a range of food routines including, a) maintenance of home cooked family meals, b) reliance on fast food and maintenance of family meals c) abandonment of cooking and family meals. While Latino neighborhoods may provide access to traditional foods, the temporal environment may necessitate dietary change. It is important for health professionals to consider the temporal environment when planning policies and interventions. Supported by Cornell University DNS, LALSP, GSGrant Funding Source: Cornell University DNS, LALSP, Grad School