Calories and control: Eating habits, behaviors, and motivations of Generation Z females

Objective This qualitative phenomenological study explored eating habits, behaviors, and motivations of Gen Z females (born 1996-2002). Participants Ten participants met selection criteria: female aged 18-24 (thus, part of Gen Z), enrolled full-time at the University and able to share experiences. Maximum variation was sought for race/ethnicity, Greek life/sorority involvement and hometown regional area. Methods Semi-structured interviews elicited detailed descriptions of lived experiences. Data consisted of five face-to-face interviews and five Internet-based teleconferenced interviews. Saldana's First Cycle/Second Cycle constant comparative method was used for data analysis. Results Four themes and four subthemes were identified: Blurred Lines (healthy versus disordered behaviors), Rationalizing Behaviors (Denial), Technological Influences (Social Media; Self-Worth), and Pandemic Influence. Conclusion Gen Z represents a pivotal population with diverse characteristics. These findings are helpful to health professionals, faculty, academic administrators, and others with vested interests in promoting healthier living, learning and work environments for this population.