The transition period between primary and secondary education : focus on pupil's eating habits

Abstract

A review of both local and international research suggests that the transition period between Primary and Secondary education may be a cause of concern and anxiety for the pupils passing through their early adolescent years. Through the use of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies this longitudinal study investigates the relationship between transition-related feelings and the eating habits of the pupils. Particular focus is devoted to the incidence of disordered eating behaviours. This study commenced with a set of observations in two Primary schools. A focus-group interview with Year 6 pupils was then carried out and Year 6 Primary teachers were interviewed. This helped to lay the grounds for the second part of the study. After the pupils' induction in Secondary schools, the sample was enlarged in order to accommodate the different Secondary schools in which the Primary pupils observed could be enrolled. A set of interviews with key informants were conducted. In conjunction with this, a questionnaire was distributed at the start of the scholastic year and re distributed after 3 months to Form 1 students. Overall results show that although the transition was a positive experience for most of the students there was a minority who for particular reasons found it difficult to adapt. Findings reveal food consumption trends that are compromising the nutritional and health status of Maltese adolescents and may contribute to nutritional-related chronic diseases. Although not very prominent as an issue, distorted perceptions about body image were recalled. This indeed can be a detrimental factor in the onset of eating disorders. Based on the findings, a set of recommendations are proposed to smooth the path during this transition period and improve the nutritional and health status of Maltese adolescents.