UvA

Integrating the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) with the five-factor model
(FFM) of personality may provide insight into the cognitive and motivational
mechanisms linking personality with health behaviour, but this issue has received
very little attention regarding fruit consumption. Mediator effects of TPB
concepts in the personality-fruit consumption link, as well as moderator effects
of personality in the intention-fruit consumption link, were therefore investigated
in the present study. Data on fruit consumption, TPB concepts and FFM
dimensions were gathered among 405 respondents in face-to-face interviews using
questionnaires. Structural equation modelling was used to investigate the
mediator and moderator effects. The direct effect of conscientiousness on fruit
consumption was mediated by attitude and perceived behavioural control, while
no direct effect of neuroticism on fruit consumption was found. Neuroticism
moderated the intention-fruit consumption relationship with the weakest
relationship for those scoring high on neuroticism. Conscientiousness did not
moderate the intention-fruit consumption relationship. TPB variables are
mediators in the conscientiousness-fruit consumption link. Whether fruit
consumption is intentional may be dependent upon the personality dimension
neuroticism. Personality dimensions may be a useful addition to the TPB and
should be considered in health behaviour change interventions.