“Food for Thought” Attitudes and Behaviours Towards Food Choices Through Culture, Emotions and Social Influence
Authors
Lucas, Michelle
Issue Date
2025.16.12
Degree
BA in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
Open Access
Abstract
The aim of this qualitative research was to explore the attitudes and behaviours towards food choices through cultural, emotional, psychological and social influences within the general population. Additionally, factors that affect dietary choices and identify opportunities that promote healthier dietary habits and improve overall public health through the development of policies and strategies. The methodology was conducted through semi structured interviews of six participants from Ireland over 18 years. Ethical approval was granted by the DBS ethical committee before the recruitment of participants by using purposive sampling. Through thematic analysis five main themes were developed highlighting the complexities of food choices. Finding many aspects of life and memories that are made around food, particularly through family traditions. Future research of a larger sample size by use of a mixed methods approach within a multicultural society would be beneficial due to the significance of cultural backgrounds in shaping dietary habits.