Universal Journal of Public Health Vol. 11(5), pp. 603 - 610
DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2023.110508
Reprint (PDF) (534Kb)

Developing a Conceptual Framework for Understanding Tongan American Dietary Behaviors: Insights from Grounded Theory Study Informing Public Health Strategies

Victor Kaufusi ^*
School of Social Work, Brigham Young University-Hawaii, United States

ABSTRACT

This grounded theory qualitative study explored the dietary patterns of 12 Tongan American participants. Central themes such as (a) cultural adaptation, (b) socioeconomic impacts on food choices, and (c) the overlap of cultural norms and health beliefs were identified. These themes facilitated the creation of a conceptual framework, highlighting the interconnection between primary factors shaping dietary behaviors among Tongan Americans. Given the high rates of obesity within this group, understanding these contextual influences is critical for fostering healthier dietary behaviors. Findings from this study can inform culturally tailored strategies, interventions, and policies to address the increasing rates of obesity among Tongan Americans, emphasizing the necessity for efficacious public health strategies. This research enhances existing literature by offering a more nuanced understanding of dietary behaviors among Tongan Americans. It underscores the interconnectedness of cultural, socioeconomic, and contextual factors, providing valuable insights for developing targeted public health strategies to address escalating obesity rates. This study also emphasized the need to address unique, influential factors to improve health outcomes within the Tongan American population.

KEYWORDS
Tongan American, Obesity Prevention Strategies, Dietary Behaviors

Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Victor Kaufusi , "Developing a Conceptual Framework for Understanding Tongan American Dietary Behaviors: Insights from Grounded Theory Study Informing Public Health Strategies," Universal Journal of Public Health, Vol. 11, No. 5, pp. 603 - 610, 2023. DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2023.110508.

(b). APA Format:
Victor Kaufusi (2023). Developing a Conceptual Framework for Understanding Tongan American Dietary Behaviors: Insights from Grounded Theory Study Informing Public Health Strategies. Universal Journal of Public Health, 11(5), 603 - 610. DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2023.110508.