Development of a Study Abroad Food Acculturation Questionnaire for U.S. College Students

Abstract

Background

When preparing students for study abroad programs, many universities prioritize preparing students for challenges like housing accommodations, course work, and safety. However, less attention is given to difficulties related to the food environment, food culture, and procurement of foods while living in Italy.

Objective

To develop and validate a survey assessing U.S. study abroad students' experiences with acculturating to Italian food culture.

Study Design, Settings, Participants

This cross-sectional study employing a mixed method approach has two phases; 1) Questionnaire development based on focus group discussions (FGD), and 2) Content validity with experts (n=5) and cognitive interviews (n=3) to assess face validity of the developed questionnaire items. The Socio Ecological Model (SEM) guided five focus group discussions with 29 students at two study abroad institutes in Italy. A review of literature and results from focus groups guided the development of a questionnaire to capture students’ experiences with acculturation into the Italian food culture within the SEM framework. Inclusion criteria were 18 years or older, enrolled in a U.S. university, and attended an Italy Study Abroad program.

Measurable Outcome/Analysis

Based on inductive thematic analysis for transcribed FGD, recurring themes were identified and structured according to SEM using Dedoose. Experts provided feedback on questionnaire clarity, interpretation, and scoring. Items in questionnaire were refined based on content and face validity.

Results

Thirty-six initial items were generated divided into four sections along with demographic questions: (A) Fourteen items assessing changes in food habits and consumption, (B) Eight items looking at food environment abroad with respect to shopping and eating out (C)Four items investigating changes in meal preparation, and (C) Five items evaluating adaptation to Italian food culture.

Conclusions

This evidence-based questionnaire addresses food-related acculturation challenges among U.S. study abroad students as seen through the lens of SEM. Future researchers can use this tool to assess acceptance and adaptation to the Italian food culture, while universities and policymakers can utilize it to develop targeted strategies to better support students in navigating food acculturation during study abroad programs.

Funding

None