Theoretical Framework

The growing prevalence of unhealthy snacking habits among college students, particularly in the context
of busy academic schedules and limited access to wholesome food options, has prompted the need for
healthier snack alternatives. Cucumber chips, with their low-calorie, nutrient-rich content, present a
promising option for promoting healthier snacking habits. This theoretical framework explores the
factors influencing the acceptance and consumption of cucumber chips among college students in
Humss Strand at Bestlink College of the Philippines.

These theories form the foundation for understanding students’ perceptions and intentions regarding
cucumber chips, emphasizing perceived health benefits and behavioral control (Janz & Becker, 1984;
Ajzen, 1991). The HBM guides an exploration of how students perceive the health advantages of
cucumber chips, while the TPB provides insights into attitudes and perceived control over adopting
healthier snack options.

Cognitive dissonance theory may arise when students face conflicts between their current snack choices
and knowledge of healthier alternatives (Festinger, 1957).

This theory is employed to investigate how introducing cucumber chips may alleviate cognitive
dissonance, fostering a positive shift towards healthier snack options.

Social Cognitive theory guides the exploration of peer influence on students’ food choices, emphasizing
observational learning and self-efficacy (Bandura, 1986).

This study examines how observing peers choosing cucumber chips influences other students, taking
into account the role of self-efficacy in making healthier choices.

Innovation Diffusion Theory is applied to understand the stages of adoption and factors influencing the
rate of adoption for cucumber chips within the student community (Rogers, 2003). This theory is also
about Identifying how the diffusion process unfolds and understanding the factors contributing to or
hindering the acceptance of cucumber chips as a novel and healthier snack.

Environmental Psychology is employed to assess the impact of the college environment on food choices,
exploring how the availability and accessibility of cucumber chips influence students’ snack preferences
(Gifford, 2014).

The study Investigates how the college environment shapes students’ perceptions and choices related to
cucumber chips.
This diagram illustrates the relationships between the key constructs of the theoretical framework. The
arrows indicate the direction of influence, with each construct influencing the consumption of cucumber
chips and ultimately healthier snacking habits among Humss Strand students at Bestlink College of the
Philippines.

The Attitudes construct represents the overall evaluation of cucumber chips as a snack option, including
perceptions of taste, healthiness, convenience, and affordability. Positive attitudes are associated with
increased consumption and a preference for healthier snacking options.

The Subjective Norms construct refers to the perceived social pressure to consume or avoid cucumber
chips, influenced by peer opinions, family norms, and societal expectations. Positive subjective norms
can encourage adoption of cucumber chips and contribute to healthier snacking habits.
The Perceived Behavioral Control construct reflects an individual’s belief in their ability to successfully
adopt cucumber chips as a regular snack, influenced by factors such as availability, accessibility, and
preparation time. High perceived behavioral control promotes adoption of cucumber chips and supports
healthier snacking habits.

The Self-Efficacy construct refers to an individual’s confidence in their ability to overcome potential
barriers to consuming cucumber chips, such as habit formation, taste preferences, and availability. High
self-efficacy increases the likelihood of adopting cucumber chips and contributes to healthier snacking
habits.

The Marketing Strategies construct encompasses the promotional efforts undertaken to increase
awareness and interest in cucumber chips, including advertising, social media campaigns, and in-store
displays. Effective marketing can encourage trial and adoption of cucumber chips and influence healthier
snacking choices.

The Environmental Factors construct refers to the physical and social context in which cucumber chips
are introduced, including the availability of healthier snack options, peer preferences, and school
policies. A supportive environment that promotes cucumber chips and healthier snacking choices can
significantly impact overall snacking habits.

The Consumption construct represents the actual intake of cucumber chips by Humss Strand students at
Bestlink College of the Philippines. Increased consumption of cucumber chips is associated with
healthier snacking habits.

The Healthier Snacking Habits construct represents the overall pattern of snacking choices that favor
healthier options, including cucumber chips. Increased consumption of cucumber chips can contribute to
the adoption of healthier snacking habits overall.

This Theoretical Framework diagram provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay
of factors that influence the effectuality of making cucumber as chips for a healthier alternative food in
Humss Strand at Bestlink College of the Philippines. By identifying and analyzing the key constructs and
their relationships, the framework can guide the development and evaluation of effective

Interventions to promote healthier snacking habits among college students.

References:

Ajzen, I. (1991). The theory of planned behavior. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes,
50(2), 179–211.

Bandura, A. (1986). Social Foundations of Thought and Action: A Social Cognitive Theory. Prentice-Hall.

Festinger, L. (1957). A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance. Stanford University Press.

Gifford, R. (2014). Environmental psychology matters. Annual Review of Psychology, 65, 541–579.

Janz, N. K., & Becker, M. H. (1984). The health belief model: A decade later. Health Education & Behavior,
11(1), 1–47.

Rogers, E. M. (2003). Diffusion of Innovations (5th ed.). Free Press.