Self-efficacy and its association with use of diet-related behavioral strategies and reported dietary intake.

The construct of self-efficacy has been widely used in studies of dietary behavior change and is accepted as a helpful process indicator. This study examined associations between self-efficacy and use of specific diet-related behavioral strategies and reported dietary intake over time. Data are from two community surveys of rural adults conducted 1 year apart (n=354). Results indicate that changes in self-efficacy are positively associated with changes in strategy use but not dietary intake. Strategies may be thought of as leading to a particular level of dietary intake but are not the only influence on intake. Findings therefore confirm hypothesized associations between these components of the behavior change process. By attending to and measuring these specific links in the process, researchers and practitioners can better determine where behavioral interventions are succeeding and where they are breaking down.