Abstract
Eating habits are a central aspect in the negotiation of identity and belonging among migrant families. Among the factors influencing these dynamics, food neophobia, or the reluctance to try unfamiliar foods, can hinder cultural adaptation and integration processes. This study investigates the relationship between food neophobia and acculturation among migrant families living in Italy, adopting a quantitative approach. A PLS-PM (Partial Least Squares Path Modeling) analysis was conducted on data collected from migrant parents, using the Food Neophobia Scale (NPS) and four validated dimensions of acculturation: sociocultural adaptation (BSAS), perceived cultural distance (BPCDS), psychological adaptation (BPAS), and acculturation orientation (BAOS). The results show a significant negative effect of food neophobia on overall acculturation, suggesting that higher levels of neophobia may constitute a barrier to cultural adaptation. In turn, acculturation showed significant positive associations with all four dimensions, highlighting its multidimensional nature. To address heterogeneity within the sample, a PATHMOX segmentation analysis was performed. The results revealed that country of origin, years of residence in Italy, and age were the most discriminating factors in determining the relationship between food neophobia and acculturation. These findings underscore the importance of considering psychological and cultural variables jointly when studying migrants’ eating practices. They also suggest that food can be a powerful entry point for interventions aimed at promoting acculturation, as addressing attitudes such as food neophobia can facilitate cultural adaptation.
Presenters
Martina ArcaduPhD, Department of Educational Science, University of Genova, Venezia, Italy
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Food Neophobia; Acculturation; Migration; Identity; Family practices; PLS-PM
