Factors affecting home cooking behavior of women with elementary school children applying the theory of planned behavior

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to examine factors affecting cooking behavior at home. We examined components of the theory of planned behavior, perception of cooking skills, and socio-demographic variables affecting cooking behavior at home. SUBJECTS/METHODS: The study sample included 425 women raising elementary school children living in South Korea. They responded to an online structured questionnaire. The variables affecting cooking behavior at home were assessed using hierarchical regression analysis. RESULTS: The frequency of cooking behavior at home was 14.1 meals per week. Most respondents showed an intention regarding cooking behavior. The average score for attitude toward cooking behavior at home was 15.1 points (scale of 1 to 25). Attitude and cooking behavior showed a significant positive correlation (P < 0.01, r = 0.22). The subjective norm was 14.6 points (scale of 1 to 25). The subjective norm showed a significant correlation with cooking behavior (P < 0.01, r = 0.18). The control belief was 2.8 points (scale of 1 to 5). The control belief and cooking behavior showed a significant correlation in all questions (P < 0.01, r = 0.25). The subjects were significant confident about their cooking skills, except for Kimchi. Perception of cooking skills showed a significant correlation with all questions concerning cooking behavior (P < 0.01, r = 0.30). Significant variables for predicting intention regarding cooking behavior were perception of cooking skills, employment status, income, and attitude. Significant variables for predicting cooking behavior were employment status, income, control belief, number of children, and behavioral intention. CONCLUSIONS: In order to provide nutrition education to increase cooking behavior at home, it is necessary to have a positive attitude toward cooking behavior, increase control belief, and improve confidence related to cooking skills. Moreover, differentiated education based on the employment status of women is needed.