bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Care labelling for upholstered furniture: consumers’expressed needs and preferences
Authors: BAKER JULIE , LAUGHLIN JOAN
Published: July 2007

The issue of care labelling for upholstered furniture has been debated by U.S. government officials and furniture manufacturers since 1974. While the Federal Trade Commission in 1982 voted not to include upholstered furniture in a move to extend coverage to products other than apparel, they did order a continuing investigation into this area. FTC officials solicited an opinion from industry representatives on the necessity of providing care labels for upholstered furniture at this time; however, they did not seek consumer input. An investigation into consumer preferences for care labelling on upholstered furniture was needed. This study was designed in two phases. Phase 1 consisted of a market survey to assess the availability of written care information on upholstered furniture at a local level. The second phase was a mail survey of consumers that collected data on expressed needs and preferences for upholstered furniture care labelling.
Consumption levels of households based on expenditure and household production
Authors: ALDERSHOFF DANIELLE , KASPER HANS
Published: July 2007

The distribution of consumption is the relative ranking of households with regard to their consumption level. This article discusses the possibilities and some of the problems in measuring consumption levels by combining expenditure and household production into one total figure. The feasibility of our approach is illustrated by using data from the Dutch 1980 budget survey and the 1980 time use study. The findings show that this total figure differs more between households of different size than between households by stage of life cycle or by income level.
Consumer use patterns for fresh and processed vegetable products
Authors: RESURRECCION ANNA V. A.
Published: July 2007

Consumer use patterns for 43 fresh and processed vegetables were studied in an effort to explain recent shifts in vegetable consumption practices. Data on the appropriateness of each of the vegetables for 10 different uses were collected and analysed to determine food and food use patterns. Nine vegetable factors and two use factors were extracted. Results indicate that in the majority of cases respondents perceive different forms of the same vegetable to be inappropriate substitutes for each other. Patterns were found which reflect the changes in usage patterns for certain forms of vegetables that have occurred in recent years.
Domestic fuel expenditure and payment of fuel allowances
Authors: HUTTON SANDRA , BRADSHAW JONATHAN , HARDMAN GEOFFREY
Published: July 2007

The allocation of additional requirements for heating to households on supplementary benefit (SB) has been challenged recently. Some households receiving an addition spend less on fuel than others which do not. The fuel expenditure of any household on SB is likely to be constrained by income and may reflect ability to pay rather than need. A group of households with zero or close to zero income elasticity for fuel expenditure is identified. The expenditure on fuel of these households can be considered not to be constrained by income and to reflect the real costs of maintaining a warm home in given circumstances. Their expenditure is then used to indicate how fuel allowances might be better targeted.
Usage of, and satisfaction with, a governmental consumer protection agency
Authors: EDMONDSON MARY E. , FORGUE RAYMOND E. , FLASHMAN ROBERT H.
Published: July 2007

State consumer protection agencies provide alternatives for consumer inquiries and for redress when consumers are unable to obtain satisfaction. In this study, the major objectives were to determine whether consumers used the services of the Kentucky Consumer Protection Division, the frequency of contact, the method of contact, the satisfaction/dissatisfaction with handling of inquiries or complaints and characteristics of inquirers/complainers. Four different surveys were used to obtain the data. The data analysis indicated that a large percentage of those who made inquiries or complained were satisfied. However, only a small percentage of the consumers had contacted the CPD, and very few used the hotline in making requests or complaints. Those who had contacted the CPD were younger, better educated and had higher incomes. Among the recommendations are that increased efforts be made to publicize the hotline and other CPD services.
Factors affecting the selection of clothes on daily basis: male and female differences
Authors: KWON YOON‐HEE , DRAYTON MARY ANN
Published: July 2007

The major objective of the study was to test the theories of the function of dress that individuals apply to everyday practice. The study examined the extent to which Maslow's theory of motivation is relevant to male and female practice regarding the selection of daily clothes, the order of importance and the attention to clothing functions demonstrated by males and females, and the inter‐relationship between the different clothing functions. The study is based on data collected from male and female students at a midwestern university in the month of April.

The Friedman two‐way ANOVA by ranks revealed that weather function was the single most important clothing function for males which influenced the selection of daily clothing, while social activity was the most important clothing function which influenced females. Females indicated a higher degree of consideration of each clothing function than males. These findings suggest that females tend to dress more for social reasons, are more sensitive to clothing needs and possess a greater degree of clothing awareness than males.

The correlation coefficients of clothing function for males and females indicated that there was a high degree of correlation between several clothing functions. The correlation coefficients of clothing functions for females were more consistent than those for males, indicating that females consistently consider several clothing functions concurrently while males do not. This finding conforms with the theory of functions of dress which illustrates the multiple nature of motivation of clothing behaviour and the interdependent characteristics of Maslow's five basic human needs.
Clothing outshopping in a rural Western community
Authors: LENNON SHARRON J. , BAUGH DONNA , CHATTERTON JULIE , LARKIN JANE
Published: July 2007

Statistics reveal that over half of all women are gainfully employed outside the home. Professional working women have a certain status to maintain and it is reasonable to assume that their clothing needs might differ from women who are employed in other occupations and who remain in the home. Recent research has shown that considerable shopping occurs out of the local retail trade area (termed outshopping). Product‐specific outshopping research has revealed clothing to be a product consumers are willing to out‐shop to obtain. Professionally employed women might have to resort to outshopping more often than the other women in order to meet their clothing needs. For this project outshopping was defined to be the percentage of shopping which occurred at least 50 miles from the test site.

This research represents the combined efforts of a graduate class studying trends in fashion merchandising; a telephone survey was developed and conducted by the class and responses from 100 female consumers were analysed using multiple step‐wise regression. It was predicted and found that clothing outshopping behaviour could be significantly predicted by the degree of satisfaction with local retailing and number of children remaining in the home. Including the two variables professional/non‐professional working status, and the age of female respondent as predictors, did not significantly improve the ability to predict outshopping behaviour. The implications for retailers are discussed.
The household and changing traffic signs of the modern dining table
Authors: PANTZAR MIKA
Published: July 2007

This paper studies aspects of choice behaviour in modern society. In traditional societies the norms and standards that guided food choice were more fixed and permanent than in our society. Today the ecological rhythm is almost meaningless, social class no longer provides any clear guide‐lines and the commercialization of food is increasingly eroding the traditional meaning of food. This paper describes different kinds of consumer responses in today's ambiguous world and discusses the problematic nature of the conventional rationality concept.
Homemakers' household‐work time in single‐parent and two‐parent families
Authors: DISMUKES DONNA L. , ABDEL‐GHANY MOHAMED
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to determine if a significant difference existed between single‐parent family homemakers and two‐parent family homemakers regarding the amount of time spent in selected household tasks. The examination of the impacts of selected socio‐demographic variables on the amount of time spent in total household work and the component tasks by the homemakers was also a part of this study.
Consequences of economic distress: the experiences of unemployed Southeast Asian refugees
Authors: JOHNSON PHYLLIS J.
Published: July 2007

Southeast Asian refugees resettled in North America during an economic recession, and were subject to economic distress which may have had negative personal and family consequences. The relationship of economic distress (employment instability, economic deprivation, economic strain, and employment uncertainty) to selected consequences was assessed, emphasizing the role of household composition as a mediator of the consequences. Responses of 274 unemployed refugees reveal that economic distress altered the severity of consequences sustained and different economic distress measures were significantly related to each consequence. Economic strain (perception of financial adequacy) had the most influence on the consequences. Postponing family reunification was a major consequence. Results on household composition suggest that living in a traditional household or one of all related people may have buffered the effect of the consequences.
Learning from housing environments: home economics and home ecology — A Canadian demonstration project
Authors: AULD JOHN W.
Published: July 2007

An effective method for providing information to bring about meaningful change and encourage the adoption of innovation is by the use of demonstration projects. This paper examines a specific housing demonstration project based on three design criteria: dynamics, life cycle cost analysis, and nexus. The paper also includes some discussion about housing and society in the future, particularly in terms of environmental stress and social change, and how housing can be responsive to changing human needs.
Food‐shopping behaviour in countries that are becoming industrialized
Authors: MUSAIGER ABDULRAHMAN O.
Published: July 2007

Gulf states, including Bahrain, have experienced rapid social and economic changes, with the result that a great alteration in food‐shopping practices has occurred. This study was conducted to determine the food‐shopping behaviour in Bahrain, and its association with nationality. A sample of 207 adults was interviewed on the spot in 18 mojor supermarkets. The findings revealed that the main reason for purchasing from a supermarket was the location (27%). Bahraini consumers were less likely than non‐Bahrainis to purchase meat products, fruit and vegetables from a supermarket. Production and expiry date were the most important information read on the label of food products (40.3%). Wives made the major food‐shopping decision in 64% of non‐Bahraini consumers compared to 37% of Bahriainis. The study suggested that investigations on food‐shopping behaviour in this region are urgently needed for understanding the current situation of food marketing.
Retailers and apparel imports: variables associated with relative proportions of imports carried
Authors: DICKERSON KITTY G.
Published: July 2007

Purposes of this exploratory study were: (i) to determine retailers' views toward imported apparel, (ii) to gain insight into retailers' reasons for carrying imported apparel, and (iii) to examine variables associated with relative proportions of imported apparel carried in stock. Interviewers surveyed 191 retailers in the eastern U.S.A., using a structured telephone interview. Data analysis included chi‐square tests of association and frequency distributions. The proportion of stock retailers reported to be imported was cross‐tabulated with a number of variables. Results gave insight into retailers' reasons for carrying imported apparel, although a majority appeared to favour domestic apparel; results also indicated some of the problems associated with carrying foreign‐made goods. Results can be useful to manufacturers in their efforts to counter retailers' trend to carry increasing quantities of imported apparel and to educators preparing graduates for employment in this sensitive sector.
Cross‐national differences in satisfaction/dissatisfaction and complaint behaviour concerning apparel products
Authors: JASPER CYNTHIA R.
Published: July 2007

Consumer satisfaction/dissatisfaction with apparel products was compared among several European nations. The issues of complaint behaviour and the extent to which dissatisfied consumers took action were also studied. The data examined were from nine member nations of the Commission of the European Communities. The sample size was 9,153 respondents. Overall, respondents expressed satisfaction with apparel products; however, a minority of respondents in each country expressed dissatisfaction with such products. Chi‐square tests of homogeneity determined relationships between countries and satisfaction/dissatisfaction with apparel. Differences in satisfaction/dissatisfaction among countries were found to be statistically significant. Moreover, whether consumers complained when dissatisfied and the type of complaining behaviour was found to vary significantly by country.
Occupant‐use factors influencing optimal results from energy conservation strategies
Authors: TURNER CAROLYN S. , GRUBER KENNETH J.
Published: July 2007

Although residential conservation strategies can have a dramatic impact on energy consumption, the involvement of the occupant can have a deterring and/or an enhancing influence on optimal results. Occupant impact on the use of residential heating conservation strategies was assessed by monitoring use factors and energy‐consumption data of nine families living in an energy test house. The families tested two supplemental space heating strategies, use of a sunspace and a woodstove. The families used each strategy separately for one‐week periods. User‐ and energy‐consumption data for the use of flow‐restricting showerheads, a hot‐water conservation strategy, were used by nine families — seven involved in the testing of the heating strategies and two who tested cooling strategies in the summer months. The families used the showerheads either for a one or two‐week period. Energy‐consumption data were compared against a baseline week in which none of the conservation strategies were used. A computer‐based data acquisition system tracked energy consumption as well as room temperatures and other environmental data. Questionnaires, completed daily and weekly, were used to collect user‐behaviour data, including evaluations of user involvement, resulting thermal comfort, and impact on family routines and habits. The results showed that resident implementation of strategy requirements was related to energy savings. Energy savings varied with being at home in order to open/close sunspace doors for optimal heating, with the level of previous experience of the woodstove strategy, and with compensating behaviour such as taking baths instead of using the flow‐restricting showerheads.
Energy conservation: changes in heating practices by Alabama residents
Authors: ROPER LYDIA L. , DARDEN LEATHA A.
Published: July 2007

Over one‐half of all the energy consumed within the home is used for heating. Any effective campaign to conserve energy must convince consumers of the necessity of changing patterns of behaviour related to heating and improving the energy efficiency of their homes. A telephone survey using a random sample of 445 Alabama households was conducted to determine changes made by consumers in heating practices since the 1973 oil embargo. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square, and t‐tests were used to analyse the data. It was found that the most common change in heating practices made by Alabama residents was to reduce thermostat settings. Other changes included the use of supplementary heat or improvements in building shell efficiency. Supplementary heat was used more frequently by higher income households, by Caucasians, and by households containing young family members. The improvement of building shell efficiency was found to be associated with higher income and Caucasian households.
Comparative performance of polyester, polypropylene and chlorofibre thermal fabrics in simulated consumer use
Authors: WILCOCK A. , GHOSH R.
Published: July 2007

Polyester, polypropylene, chlorofibre/acrylic and polypropylene/acrylic/wool thermal fabrics were compared for water absorption/wicking, pilling and relaxation following elongation. The polypropylene fabrics did not absorb water. Wicking was related to the mass of all but the polypropylene/acrylic/wool fabric, which had a structure unlike that of any of the other fabrics. The polypropylene/acrylic/wool blend had the optimal resistance to pilling, least dimensional change in laundering and negligible growth after elongation.
Consumer acceptance of irradiated food: A study of symbolic adoption
Authors: SAPP STEPHEN G. , HARROD WENDY J.
Published: July 2007

Previous research reveals mixed signals regarding the potential for consumer acceptance of irradiated food. Consumer acceptance seems to depend upon the nature and amount of information provided about irradiation. Survey research finds that only about 20–30% of respondents initially express favourable opinions of irradiation with some cautionary signals concerning consumer suspicion of the process and its benefits to the public. Some laboratory experiments and market tests, on the other hand, indicate a willingness of the consumer to accept a high quality, government‐approved product, especially when irradiation is placed within the context of alternative pest and bacteria control treatments. However, these studies fail to provide the consumer with negative information about irradiation.

This study examines the relative impact of social persuasion and both favourable and unfavourable information on consumer acceptance of food irradiation. The study takes the approach that consumer acceptance is a social process, wherein acceptance becomes subject to societal approval through word‐of‐mouth conversations. Previous literature suggests that social persuasion, particularly negative social persuasion, should outweigh favourable information on consumer acceptance of a new technology. This proposition is supported by the results of our study, which indicates that responses that were initially favourable to irradiation, especially those opinions formed in the absence of unfavourable information, should be interpreted with caution. The study supports previous research, therefore, suggesting that industry and governmental agencies would benefit from close inspection of societal attitudes towards the food irradiation process.
Social class and consumption: employers as a special case
Authors: TOIVONEN TIMO
Published: July 2007

During the last few years it has become popular to argue that the impact of social class on personal consumption and other aspects of social behaviour is declining. This paper has two basic objectives. The first objective is to ascertain the extent of variation in consumption patterns between socio‐economic groups, independent of income and type of household. As a number of studies of the class structure show, the long‐term decline trend in self‐employment outside of agriculture was halted or even reversed in many developed countries in the mid‐1970s. However, despite evidence for the ‘new rise’ of the self‐employed, and perhaps for reasons connected to the way social science has traditionally viewed it, little research has been conducted so far into the life styles and attitudes of this important group. Consequently, the second objective of this article is to analyse and compare the consumption pattern of the self‐employed with that of employees — especially where income levels are the same. The results of this analysis, based on the Finnish household survey, indicate the effect of the socio‐economic group is stronger than that of the income group and that the consumption pattern of the self‐employed does not diverge greatly from that of the ‘well‐off employee group. Nonetheless, the information on the detailed expenditure groups also reveals some interesting differences.
Influence of lifestyle and evaluative criteria for apparel on information search among non‐employed female consumers
Authors: SHIM SOYEON , DRAKE MARY FRANCES
Published: July 2007

This study was designed to investigate the influence of lifestyle and apparel evaluative criteria on information search in apparel purchasing decisions among non‐employed female consumers. A random sample of non‐employed female consumers (n = 476) was collected via a self‐administered questionnaire mailed across the nation. Principal Components Factor Analysis with Varimax Rotation was used to reduce the number of lifestyle, evaluative criteria, and information search activity items. As a result of Stepwise Multiple Regression Analyses, it was found that relationships existed among evaluative criteria, lifestyle, and informarion search patterns. Search profiles were developed to describe the four consumer information search patterns in terms of their lifestyle and evaluative criteria. Results will benefit consumers, marketers, and legislators because an understanding of consumer information seeking activities is essential in the design of efficient communication among these three groups.
Home economics programmes in Oyo state secondary schools: a survey
Authors: OWOLABI ELIZABETH AINA , PETERAT LINDA , ARCUS MARGARET
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to identify the curricula emphases in home economics in Oyo state secondary schools and to describe selected aspects of teaching and the teacher. Sixty‐two home economics teachers in Oyo state responded to a mailed survey indicating the degree of emphasis given to 50 topics in five subject‐matter areas of home economics: (i) clothing and textiles, (ii) foods and nutrition, (iii) home management and family economics, (iv) housing, and (v) human development and the family. The most taught subject‐matter areas (in order) are foods and nutrition, home management and family economics and clothing and textiles while human development and the family and housing were the least taught subject‐matter areas. A similar response was given for teacher's reported level of competence and subject‐matter preference. Scores on the topics within each subject‐matter area, however, indicated that all the five subject‐matter areas were moderately emphasized in the curriculum. These three philosophical views of home economics exist concurrently in Oyo state secondary schools: (i) home economics as home‐making education, (ii) home economics as household management, and (iii) home economics as cooking and sewing. Suggestions for improving and strengthening the current home economics programmes are discussed.

This research was conducted during 1987–1988 in the Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
In‐home videotex shopping: potential adopters and non‐adopters
Authors: MAST ELISABETH A. , SHIM SOYEON , MORGAN GEORGE A.
Published: July 2007

This study was designed to identify potential adopters and non‐adopters of videotex shopping. Data (n =205) were collected with a questionnaire following demonstration of a typical use of actual videotex shopping. As compared to non‐adopters, potential adopters of videotex shopping were more likely to be social shoppers, price conscious, and were less likely to enjoy catalogue shopping. Potential adopters were also more likely to have prior awareness of videotex, a positive attitude towards merchants/service of videotex shopping and overall videotex services. However, they felt that current or demonstrated videotex shopping information was inadequate. In addition, differences existed between potential adopters and non‐adopters in some demographics, videotex service needs and almost all videotex shopping merchandise needs.
Iron content of palm sugar and its chemical forms in Indonesia
Authors: HORI KOHJI , PURBOYO RAHMA BOEDI R.A.
Published: July 2007

The palm sugar which is produced in Indonesia comes from the sap of the palm tree. The iron content of palm sugar and its chemical forms on the market was studied. The iron content was relatively high, though it varied from product to product. Amounts of soluble and ionic iron were found in each sugar product. Over 50% of ionic iron was ferrous iron. The existence of ferrous iron in palm sugar is attributable to reducing activity formed by the non‐enzymes browning reaction of reducing sugar with amino compounds. It is believed that palm sugar can improve iron nutritional status.
A comparative study of domestic contribution and family property allocation in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom
Authors: LAWSON ROYSTON J.
Published: July 2007

The attainment of social justice for family members following marital breakdown is a perennial social and legal issue. In the three common law jurisdictions reviewed (Australia, New Zealand and the U.K.) various approaches demonstrate the elusive nature of this goal, particularly in regard to the recognition and valuation of domestic (home‐making and parenting) contributions to the family. Statutory provisions in the jurisdictions reviewed reflect the prevailing social policy in regard to allocation of property on dissolution. Critical variables of statutes interpreted by courts include length of the marriage, Conduct of the parties and contribution to the respondent spouse's business. Attempts to seek equity via home‐maker/parenting contributions reflect variously the notion of a good law of matrimonial property.
Poverty status and expenditure patterns: comparison between elderly and non‐elderly households
Authors: CHUNG YOUNG SOOK , MAGRABI FRANCES M.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to find out if significant differences exist in patterns of expenditures between elderly and non‐elderly consumers, taking poverty status into account. Cluster analysis was used to identify expenditure patterns. Four different expenditure patterns were found. Elderly middle‐income and affluent households were more likely to belong to service‐using cluster than non‐elderly poor households. Nonelderly households were more likely to belong to shelter‐dominated cluster than elderly households. Poor households were more likely to belong to homebound cluster, while non‐poor households were more likely to belong to car‐centred cluster.
Satisfaction with household production: the effect of time spent in household production by husbands and wives
Authors: DILLARD BETTY G. , WEAGLEY ROBERT O. , HELMICK SANDRA A.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between the extent of household production and satisfaction with household production. Data were obtained from 400 married couples who responded to a postal questionnaire. The dependent variable was an index of satisfaction incorporating two aspects of household production, quality and quantity. Regression analysis indicated that of the three variables representing the extent of household production in the model — hours spent by each spouse in household production and an activity index to measure the number of household production activities — only husband's hours spent in household production demonstrated a significant, independent effect. Other significant variables included husband's hours of market work, household net worth, age of respondent and gender of respondent. Two significant interactions indicated that (i) the relationship between wife's hours of household production and satisfaction with household production differed according to the gender of the respondent, and (ii) the relationship of husband's hours of market work and satisfaction differed according to the age of the respondent.
Bacterial survival on fabrics laundered in cold water
Authors: PERENICH THERESA A. , WILKINSON RHONDA P.
Published: July 2007

The effect of detergent formulation and fabric type on bacterial survival after home laundering in cold water was investigated. Three fabrics, 65/35 polyester/cotton shirting, 100% cotton sheeting, and 100% cotton terry cloth, were inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus, laundered in cold 60 ± 5°F (16 ± 3°C) water and machine dried. Eight phosphorus‐based powders and non‐phosphorus detergents in both powder and liquid form were used. A control with no detergent was used. Percent reduction in bacteria after machine washing and after machine drying were determined.

Of the eight detergents studied, only two effectively removed 100% of the bacteria from the cotton terry cloth after washing. These were sodium carbonate and aluminosilicate‐based powders, one of which contained sodium perborate, the other included enzymes. All of the detergents used removed > 97% of bacteria from the polyester/cotton shirting and cotton sheeting fabrics. No significant cross contamination occurred with any fabric. A greater percent reduction of bacteria was obtained with the terry cloth samples after washing and tumble drying than after washing alone.

The implications of the study are important for consumers who are using colder water in the laundering process. This study found that bacteria were removed more easily from the two plain weave fabrics than the looped terry cloth fabric. The effectiveness of tumble drying after cold water laundering to reduce bacteria in the terry cloth towelling was an important finding.
A comparison of the disinfectant action of a powder and liquid detergent during low‐temperature laundering
Authors: AINSWORTH PAUL , FLETCHER JOHANNE
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this research was to investigate the disinfectant action of a heavy‐duty powder and heavy‐duty liquid detergent at recommended and low washing temperatures. The effectiveness of the disinfectant action was measured in terms of removal, transfer and destruction of bacteria from infected test pieces of fabric. The investigation suggests that the temperature of the wash is important, since when reduced, less disinfectant action is observed. The results also indicate that liquid detergent is more effective at removing and destroying bacteria then powder at both temperatures used.
Older adults: clothing preferences for thermal comfort in cold weather
Authors: KHAN SAMINA , ROPER LYDIA , ROGERS MARGARET
Published: July 2007

Escalating energy prices and widely publicized energy saving practices in the last decade have induced some older consumers to lower household temperatures during cold weather. Therefore, the effective manipulation of clothing warrants consideration in maintaining thermal body comfort. The purpose of this research was to determine the clothing preferences of elderly consumers indoors during cold weather. Four hundred and fifty questionnaires were administered at three locations. Results from the study revealed that comfort was the most significant factor in selecting warm clothing. Although the respondents had implemented the effective use of clothing to achieve thermal comfort, the use of supplemental heat, and control of thermostat setting for heat was more prevalent. Suggestions and recommendations are made for practitioners who would address the issues of clothing for thermal comfort and energy conservation.
Hispanic consumer acculturation and food safety concerns
Authors: DÍAZ‐KNAUF KATHERINE , LÓPEZ MARTHA , IVANKOVICH CARMEN , AGUILAR FERNANDO , BRUHN CHRISTINE , SCHUTZ HOWARD
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of Hispanic consumer acculturation on concerns about food safety and pesticide residues, and attitudes toward pesticide‐related agricultural practices. Two 3‐min bilingual, English and Spanish, videos presenting information on integrated pest management (IPM) farming practices were shown in controlled settings to Californian Hispanic consumers (n = 91). Findings reveal that acculturation among Hispanic consumers, language of use and length of residency in the United States, are significant factors associated with consumer concerns about the safety of domestic grown and imported produce at the supermarket. Overall, however the research suggests a substantial lack of information by Hispanic consumers regardless of level of acculturation. Pre‐ and post‐video survey results show significant change in attitude among Hispanic consumers toward food safety, farming practices, and university efforts to help farmers control pests and assist with other management techniques. These findings suggest that bilingual educational programmes on food safety and the use of pesticides by farmers would be appropriate.
Comparison of selected computer attitude scales
Authors: BELLEAU BONNIE D. , SUMMERS TERESA A.
Published: July 2007

Attitude towards computer scales developed by experts in the area were selected for comparison. Each scale was administered to 108 undergraduate students at a major university. Reliability analyses indicated that one scale was the most reliable of the three. Each scale was also analysed with a factor analysis using the Varimax rotation procedure. Although two of the scales measured attitudes toward computers in general, the remaining scale was slightly outdated and did not account for as much of the variance as the others did. One scale accurately measured computer efficacy involving control of computers and intention to use them. Each scale measured a different dimension of attitudes towards computers, therefore selection of a scale should be determined by what type of attitude information is being sought.
An assessment of the effect of fabric conditioner in the final rinse
Authors: MILLER JENNIFER McLAREN
Published: July 2007

An objective and subjective assessment of sample fabrics is made from pre‐wash through to wash and use of a fabric conditioner in order to determine the physical handling measurements which can be used to assess the perceived output quality from these processes.
Rural and urban in‐home clothing shoppers: a comparison
Authors: HAYNES JANICE L. , LOWE PHYLLIS C. , BLACK WILLIAM C.
Published: July 2007

In‐home shopping has become an integral element in today's retailing structure. The purpose of this study was to provide a theoretically based investigation of in‐home shopping behaviour by focusing on the differences between urban and rural consumers regarding in‐home clothing purchases and identifying the patronage‐related factors. With separate samples of rural and urban consumers, a questionnaire assessed three general types of factors thought to affect in‐home shopping (personal characteristics, perceptions of shopping options and situational constraints). Descriptive profiles first identified the differences between urban vs rural respondents on their catalogue usage and cable shopping frequency. A multivariate test (discriminant analysis) assessed whether differences exist between the rural and urban sub samples on the basic factors affecting in‐home shopping. Findings demonstrated that these two groups differ not only in their frequency of in‐home shopping, but also in each of the three basic factors influencing this form of patronage. Implications for retailers and further research are provided.
Mid‐life and older workers: job displacement and health care coverage
Authors: BOWMAN JAN L. B.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to explore factors influencing the likelihood that workers would have health care coverage following job displacement. The sample was drawn from the Current Population Survey: Displaced Worker Supplement (January 1988) and consisted of 840 workers aged 45 years and older. The workers lost jobs because of plant closings, relocations or because of slack work At the time of the survey, 567 displaced workers indicated that they had health care coverage. Logistic analysis revealed that prior health care coverage, new earnings of males and family incomes of $20,000 or more impacted the likelihood that these displaced workers would have health care coverage. However, workers subsequently re‐employed in new jobs (over 35 hours a week) were less likely to have health care coverage.
Sleepwear acquisitions and attributes: preferences related to personality types
Authors: LABHARD LEZLIE A. , MORRIS NANCY A.
Published: July 2007

While sleepwear has been more stable than other facets of the apparel industry, sales have decreased. This research explored acquisition of sleepwear by college women, desired attribute characteristics, and preferred styles using an author‐developed questionnaire. Most sleepwear was self‐selected from department stores. Preferences were for natural fibres and knit fabrics, followed by satin. Comfort was the attribute ranked highest; brand and sexiness were ranked lowest. Preferred styles were: tops (crop and camisole) and pants [short and tap (French knickers style)], T‐shirts, and man‐tailored shirts. Personality types were determined using the Myers‐Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI); most of the participants were intuitive‐feeling types. No significant relation between sleepwear preference and personality type was found. Manufacturers and retailers need to be aware of the market diversity and capable of adapting to consumer needs, identifying consumer needs and preferences and effectively targeting markets are crucial to economic success. Implications are discussed.
Development of size labelling systems for women's garments
Authors: CHUN‐YOON JONGSUK , JASPER CYNTHIA R.
Published: July 2007

This paper reviews the development of size labelling systems for women's garments sold in the U.S.A. The review shows that three trends are evident: (1) a continuous decrease in the numerical codes of sizes; (2) an emphasis on large and petite sizes; and (3) the introduction of split sizes. Problems with the size labelling systems currently in use in the U.S.A. are also discussed. A survey of consumers' preferences regarding various size labelling system is recommended.
Cleaning up green marketing claims: a comparison of regulation in Australia and the U.S.A.
Authors: POLONSKY MICHAEL J.
Published: July 2007

This paper examines Australian and US. attempts to regulate green marketing activities. Both countries have adopted voluntary guidelines in an attempt to control the problems associated with questionable green marketing claims and unfair competition which can mislead consumers. While both countries have adopted a similar approach to solving this problem the Australian activities can be generalized to all types of claims. The U.S. guidelines have been criticized as proscriptive and inflexible. The development of a set of guidelines which can be generalized will minimize the potential for consumers or governments to believe firms are using misleading green marketing claims.
Factors influencing financial strain on elderly people who live alone in the U.S.A.
Authors: LEE HEE‐SOOK
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study is to investigate factors influencing financial strain experienced by elderly persons living alone. Data for this study were drawn from a national survey conducted by Louis Harris and Associates, Inc. in 1986 at the request of The Commonwealth Fund Commission on Elderly People Living Alone to obtain a picture of the resources, problems, needs and preferences of elderly Americans who live alone. For this study, a path model was tested by using multiple regressions. Demographic factors (gender, age and race) were statistically significant factors indirectly influencing financial strain through one economic factor (income) and one health‐related factor (physical limitations). Economic factors (income and health insurance coverage) and one health‐related factor (physical limitations) were statistically significant factors directly influencing financial strain.
Fruit: comparisons of consumption, attitudes, knowledge and preferences of primary school children in England and Germany
Authors: NEALE R.J. , OTTE SILKE , TILSTON C.H.
Published: July 2007

Primary school children's fruit consumption and attitudes, knowledge and preferences regarding fruit were investigated using interview techniques in schools in England (Nottinghamshire) and Germany (north east), and analysed on the bases of culture, sex and social class. Children from both countries had strong positive attitudes towards increasing fruit consumption and differed little in their ability to correctly identify five fruits (including tropical fruits). Fruit preferences also showed many similarities, with more than 95% of children from both Germany and England choosing apples as fruits they liked, followed closely by strawberries, oranges, pears, grapes and bananas. Fruit consumption by German children was, however, higher than English children both at breakfast and in school breaks. Strategies for increasing fruit consumption in English children are discussed in relation to the findings obtained.
Spending patterns of lone‐parent and two‐parent Canadian families
Authors: SHARPE DEANNA L. , ABDEL‐GHANY MOHAMED , SILVER J. LEW
Published: July 2007

Data on 214 lone‐parent families and 1,133 two‐parent families were drawn from the Canadian 1990 Survey of Family Expenditures to examine their expenditure patterns. Tobit analysis was used to estimate marginal propensities to consume and income elasticities of 14 expenditure categories. Statistically significant differences between lone‐parent families and two‐parent families were found for the marginal propensities to consume and the income elasticities for expenditures on food at home, household operations and personal care.
An evolving historical paradigm: from ‘home economics' to ‘family and consumer sciences’1
Authors: DARLING CAROL ANDERSON
Published: July 2007

With the professional name change in the United States of ‘home economics' to ‘family and consumer sciences’, the purpose of this paper is to facilitate communicating an understanding of our profession to our students. This paper focuses on an historical perspective depicting a progression of conceptualizations about the profession. Four developmental models are presented to provide a system of organization that will help students develop their professional identity. This paper is a reflection of an individual journey to gain a personal‐professional identity. The sharing of this pilgrimage and the visual models that have been developed to enhance its communication have become a valuable resource and meaningful part of an undergraduate core class that provides students with the initiative to begin their own professional clarifications.
Differences in the use of bank and retail credit cards in the U.S.A.
Authors: CHOI HEESUN NOH , DeVANEY SHARON A.
Published: July 2007

Data from the 1989 Survey of Consumer Finances1 were analysed to find factors related to credit card use in U.S. households. Factors associated with the probability of using only retail cards were being a female‐headed household, being older and being in a blue collar occupation. The use of bank cards only was associated with male heads of households, renting and a negative attitude toward credit. The use of both retail and bank cards was associated with a positive attitude toward credit, being in a professional or managerial occupation and home ownership. The results provide insight into credit card use and should help target educational efforts to those most likely to experience debt problems related to extensive use of credit cards.
The influence of various factors on the main meal format served in New Zealand households
Authors: MITCHELL JANET , McLAUGHLIN ROBIN
Published: July 2007

The traditional main meal served in New Zealand households has been based on that of the British, i.e. a meat‐based main course that includes potatoes and other vegetables followed by a dessert. In recent years consumption figures for meat suggest that New Zealanders are making changes in their diets. This study investigates whether this change has involved a change for New Zealanders in the format of their meal. It also examines the factors that influence meal choices. It was found that cultural traditions are strongly associated with meal format and that the meal format varies most for those who hold strong ecological beliefs. This finding suggests that nutrition educators attempting to bring about changes in a population's diet should institute changes within accepted meal formats.
Home food production, meaning, and family cohesion/adaptability
Authors: BEUTLER IVAN F. , LAI STEPHEN
Published: July 2007

Empirical relationship between concepts from two important bodies of family literature are examined: home production from resource management, and cohesion and adaptability from literature on family relationships. Applying an input – output–throughput family systems perspective, indirect association of resource and demand variables and direct association of home food production variables were examined with respect to family cohesion and adaptability. Multivariant correlations of home food production frequency with family cohesion and family adaptability were statistically significant and positive. This positive relationship was further strengthened among respondents who reported home food production activity as being meaningful to their family.
Vitamin supplementation practices: health/nutrition education implications
Authors: READ MARSHA , SCHUTZ HOWARD , BOCK MARGARET ANN , MEDEIROS DENIS , ORTIZ MELCHOR , RAAB CAROLYN , SHEEHAN EDWARD T. , WILLIAMS DORIS
Published: July 2007

A sample of 310 supplement users, 216 nonsupplement users and 247 inconsistent (user/nonuser) supplementers were followed for 18 months to examine the consistency of supplementation. Since supplementation is often not required for a healthy diet, factors associated with persistence or stability of supplement use have implications for appropriate health/nutrition education. Consistent supplementation (at least 18 months' duration) was associated (P < 0·01) with (i) female sex, (ii) health beliefs in the efficacy of supplementation, (iii) seeking health information from physicians, nurses, dietitians and nutritionists, (iv) using periodicals, TV/radio and books for sources of nutrition information, (v) older age, (vi) higher income and (vii) higher levels of education. Nonusers were more likely to attribute health to chance on the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control scale, and inconsistent users were more likely to have experienced a change in employment status, relocation to another town/city and a higher number of ‘change’ events in the previous 18 months. Based on the characteristics of the consistent supplement user, ‘academic controversy’ may be an effective educational strategy to employ, if changes in supplementation attitudes and beliefs are desired.
Food choices and the younger generation
Authors: WARWICK JENNIFER , MCILVEEN HEATHER , STRUGNELL CHRISTOPHER
Published: July 2007

Food choice is influenced by many factors including physical, social and psychological ones. In this research, the food choices of young people in the 9–15 age group were investigated and the possible factors influencing them examined. Observations and questionnaires carried out in schools within Northern Ireland indicated that many young people are inclined to choose high‐fat and high‐sugar products and often dislike fresh fruit and vegetables. This raises concern, especially with the continued high incidence of coronary heart disease within the province. Further work has suggested that young people are aware of current nutrition policies and the importance of healthy eating, but still fail to put this knowledge into practice.