Researchers Investigate Facial Cues in Shaping Adult Eating Behavior

Researchers from the Aston University School of Psychology in the UK have conducted a study to explore how observing facial expressions during the consumption of raw broccoli influences young women’s liking and desire to eat the vegetable. Social modeling, the process through which individuals learn from others by observing their behaviors, plays a significant role in shaping eating habits. 

In this investigation led by Dr. Katie Edwards, over 200 young women participated in a study where they watched a video featuring clips of different unfamiliar adults consuming raw broccoli. During the consumption, the models displayed either positive (smiling), neutral, or negative (disgust-like) facial expressions. The researchers specifically focused on women’s reactions due to potential gender differences in the modeling of eating behavior. 

Previous research suggests that behaviors are more likely to be imitated when positive consequences are observed, while negative outcomes may deter imitation. However, the present study revealed a partial correlation. Exposure to models eating broccoli with negative facial expressions resulted in a greater reduction in liking ratings, but the reverse effect was not observed. 

Dr. Edwards noted, “Watching others eating a raw vegetable with a positive facial expression did not increase adults’ vegetable liking or eating desire.” This deviation from the expected correlation suggests that avoiding any food perceived as disgusting, regardless of its common likability, may serve as a protective mechanism against consuming unpleasant or harmful substances. Additionally, smiling while eating might be perceived as an atypical display of liking a particular food. 

The study highlights the nuanced relationship between facial expressions and food preferences, challenging the assumption that positive expressions universally enhance liking and desire for a specific food. Dr. Edwards suggests that the observed results may imply that watching someone eat a raw vegetable with positive facial expressions might not be an effective strategy for increasing adults’ vegetable consumption. 

It is important to note that the study focused on adults, and the researchers acknowledge the need for further exploration, especially in the context of children’s food acceptance. Considering children’s inherent reluctance to try vegetables, negative facial expressions during vegetable consumption could potentially impact children’s acceptance of these foods. For instance, if a child witnesses a parent expressing disgust while eating vegetables, it may negatively influence the child’s vegetable acceptance. 

Participants in the study watched short video clips rather than observing people eating in front of them, allowing for the examination of dynamic, reactive facial expressions—a more realistic scenario than static pictures. However, the researchers emphasize the necessity of future studies examining the effects of live food enjoyment on eating behavior. 

While these findings provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between facial expressions and food liking, there is still much to be understood about the broader implications and potential applications of these observations. Dr. Edwards concludes by highlighting the need for further research to determine whether the study’s findings translate into actual changes in adults’ vegetable intake, emphasizing the importance of exploring practical applications of these insights in real-world scenarios. 

Journal Reference  

Katie L. Edwards et al, Facial expressions and vegetable liking, Frontiers in Psychology (2024). DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1252369.