Perceptions of College Weight Gain: An Exploratory Study

Research has demonstrated that a majority of college students gain weight during their college years. However, research has not agreed on the multifaceted causes of weight gain among this population. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine college students’ perceived environmental, personal and behavioral factors influencing college weight gain. A total of 110 students participated in focus groups. Utilizing constant comparative analysis, researchers worked together to code data into themes and sub-themes. The majority of participants reported negative factors in the social, institutional and physical environment impacting college weight gain. In particular, they perceived four dining hall policies that made eating healthy difficult on campus. Participants also reported a lack of confidence in how to plan, shop and cook healthy meals. Further, participants were unsure how to budget and plan out what to spend their money on related to food. This study elucidated several unique interactions in the environment that may influence college weight gain. Targeted research focusing on these interactions is needed.