Predictors of Intentions to Make Healthier Eating Choices among Midwestern Truck Drivers

Abstract

Truck drivers constitute a highly vulnerable population with very limited opportunities for healthy foods and healthy eating choices. This cross-sectional study assessed the utility of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in understanding and predicting healthy eating intention among Midwestern truck drivers in the United States. Participants were recruited through online trucker forums and advertisements at truck stops. Each participant completed an anonymous, web-based questionnaire that measured attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. One hundred and forty-six truck drivers responded, with the average Body Mass Index (BMI) 32.7 and working as a truck driver for 10.3 years. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis assessed the predictive value of individual TPB constructs and the model. The predictive model containing the TPB constructs explained 18% of the variance in healthy eating intention, with attitude and subjective norm making significant and unique contributions. With the variance explained, the findings minimally supported the utility of TPB in understanding and predicting healthy eating intention among the truck drivers. These findings should be interpreted in view of the study limitations; the small sample size and being a self-report study. Notwithstanding, the findings highlight the importance of attitude and subjective norms in understanding and predicting healthy eating intention among Midwestern truck drivers in the United States.

Program Evaluation of Fit to Pass®, a Remotely Accessible Health Promotion Program for Commercial Motor Vehicle Truck Drivers

“…However, there is a disconnect between self-awareness and driver’s efforts at improving health (Greenfield et al, 2016; Lemke & Apostolopoulos, 2015; Passey et al, 2014). Strategies to increase self-awareness and intention can reduce self-limiting barriers to realistic goal achievement (Yen et al, 2019). Motivational interviewing by health coaches was identified as an intervention used to increase truck drivers’ self-efficacy and potentially improve their intention to pursue healthy lifestyle behaviors (Greenfield et al, 2016; Passey et al, 2014; Thiese, Effiong, et al, 2015; Wilson et al, 2018; Yen et al, 2019).…”

“…Strategies to increase self-awareness and intention can reduce self-limiting barriers to realistic goal achievement (Yen et al, 2019). Motivational interviewing by health coaches was identified as an intervention used to increase truck drivers’ self-efficacy and potentially improve their intention to pursue healthy lifestyle behaviors (Greenfield et al, 2016; Passey et al, 2014; Thiese, Effiong, et al, 2015; Wilson et al, 2018; Yen et al, 2019). By teaching the importance of individual goal setting, drivers learn the steps needed to change resistant behaviors and overcome obstacles (Wilson et al, 2018).…”